The Long Game Podcast with Sandra Scaiano

https://www.library.hbs.edu/hc/hawthorne/anewvision.html#e

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How Observation Affects Success: The Hawthorne Effect EP 191

Fri, 03 May 2024 10:54:00 -0000

In this episode of The Long Game podcast, I’m diving deep into understanding human nature and behavior, and learning how we can apply it in our digital businesses. Ever heard of the Hawthorne Effect? Well, applying this century-old observation will change your approach to online courses and memberships for the better.

The Hawthorne Effect came from studies of behaviors in the workplace from nearly a century ago. It refers to the phenomenon where individuals behave better and improve their work when they know that they are being observed or watched. But this is only good in the short term. Over time, mental attitudes, proper supervision, and informal social relationships experienced in the workplace proved to be the key to improved productivity.

“When we dig in and we find the data backing up our claims, it opens up a whole new arena of confidence in our approach.” – Sandra Scaiano

How can we apply these studies in developing our courses and programs, and in all aspects of our business?

Here are 3 practical steps:

Establish a system of accountability
Keep in touch
Track progress

“Value is not more time online. Value is helping your students move through the material.” - Sandra Scaiano

By leveraging our knowledge of the Hawthorne Effect and other behavioral studies, content and program creators can make sure they develop a dynamic learning environment that empowers and encourages participants to finish their goals and succeed. Understanding human behavior is key to driving engagement and maximizing the impact of our online offerings. It’s when we know, understand, and apply that we get to improve what we produce and keep playing the long game.

Important Links:

https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-the-hawthorne-effect-2795234

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Messaging & Client Attraction with Wendy White EP 190

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

This episode of The Long Game talks all about messaging and is a must-hear for all business owners. Messaging is at the crux of all our communication: sales, social media, networking, even introductions. Today, Wendy White will be sharing everything we need to know to have effective messaging.

“The reason people aren’t clear to the world is they're not clear to themselves.” - Wendy White

Wendy is a messaging strategist to coaches and consultants who are ready to become thought leaders. She helps business owners communicate what they do and why it matters. She worked in international sales & business development, winning clients for many companies. Since then, she’s worn many hats, but she kept on doing what she’s good at, communicating a clear message that talks about the business and attracts the right clients.

In this episode, we talk about:

How getting your messaging right (or wrong) affects your marketing
The details that go into your introduction
Clarity and concept before copy
Using A.I. in messaging and marketing

The problem with unclear messaging is that you end up sounding just like everyone else. Your audience can’t figure out exactly what you do, who you work with, or who you are. You try to keep up with the ever-changing trends, SEOs and algorithms but still fail to communicate your message to the people who need to hear them.

“You have to connect what you do to why it matters to them.” - Wendy White

Crafting your messaging is more than just about being clear about what you do. Underneath that lies key paradigm shifts that empower you in your business and any kind of communication you’ll have. Being clear about your own business makes you a better business owner, and it brings you closer to being that thought leader you want to be.

Connect with Wendy White:

Instant Impact Workshop

Extraordinary Impact® Accelerator

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Selling Strategy with Maggie Patterson EP 189

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Service business owners always need a strategy. It’s foundational to their business and a part of their work process. It impacts how clients work with them and the quality of service they provide. The problem is that way too often, strategy ends up getting buried under services. As a result, clients don’t appreciate their work, they feel underappreciated, and they don’t charge as much as they should for the value they provide. Today I’m joined by Maggie Patterson, who’ll share her experience and expertise in business strategies.

With two decades of experience, Maggie has spent her career in client services and entrepreneurship. She’s the editorial director at Scoop Studios and the founder of BS Free Business, where she works with service-based businesses and agency owners to build BS-free businesses that put trust first in everything they do. Maggie is a podcaster, writer, and vocal advocate for humane business practices rooted in respect, empathy, and trust. As a former freelancer turned agency owner, she knows exactly what it takes to make it when building a business offering services.

“Your strategy should be firmly set and semi-rigid.” - Maggie Patterson

Maggie shares some important points about strategy:

Showcasing your strategy
Valuing your strategy
Preparing to sell your strategy

Going beyond strategy talk, Maggie pulls from her decades' worth of experience and shares how important it is to trust your gut and stick to what’s important to you. You don’t need to follow every hyped-up advice from a business influencer. You don’t need to work with a client who doesn’t value you. You don’t need to sell in a way that feels uncomfortable for you. You’re the business owner. You get to decide how you want to run your business in a way that aligns with your values and goals and still be successful.

“The people playing the long game are the people you want to align with.” - Maggie Patterson

This episode is full of amazing insights from Maggie. She freely shares her experience and expertise to help business owners make the most out of their strategy by playing The Long Game.

Connect with Maggie Patterson:

Podcast: Duped: The Dark Side of Online Business

BS-Free Service Business

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Content Repurposing with Greg Wasserman of CastMagic EP 188

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000

When we hear “content repurposing,” most of us think of taking long-form content like a podcast or a webinar and cutting it up into reels or shorts or turning it into a LinkedIn or blog post. That’s an outdated idea of content repurposing. Today, you can take in anything you do in the day-to-day of your business—company meetings, coaching calls, strategy sessions—look at them from a different perspective and turn them into other forms of content: courses, lead magnets, newsletters, social media posts, or even action tasks.

“Content repurposing is multifaceted.” - Greg Wasserman

To talk about this new definition of content repurposing, I'm joined by Greg Wasserman, head of growth partnerships and community at CastMagic, an AI platform transforming content repurposing for podcasters, coaches, speakers, and marketers. With CastMagic, entrepreneurs can upload their media files, either their podcasts, meeting recordings, talks, seminars, or voice notes, and with different prompts, generate ideas on how to present them in a new way.

Greg also talks about:

The different facets of content repurposing
Utilizing your existing content library
The long game of content creation

“Invest in learning not only your tool, your craft, but also what others are doing so that you can improve.” - Greg Wasserman

As business owners, we think we have to keep coming up with the next great thing, but what if you already came up with a great thing that will elevate your business? Repurposing isn’t just for your marketing, but it can also be applied to your business as a whole, and help you optimize your time and work.

Connect with CastMagic:

Connect with Greg Wasserman:

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No Matter What with Jennie & Meredyth EP 187

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0000

We’re back with another episode of The Long Game Podcast. Today, we're diving into a topic that's important to our businesses: the business structure.

Joining us are Jennie & Meredyth, who together, run their coaching empire for people with impatient ambition who want to accomplish more of what actually matters to them. They help people change their views on productivity, schedule, and freedom to shape their life the way they want to. And today, by sharing their experiences, they’ll help you do the same.

“Shifting to a place where your commitments are at that no matter what level really means that we have to be realistic.” - Jennie Mustafa-Julock

Jennie was a guest on episode 103: Make It Happen with Coach Jennie, when she was known as “Coach Jennie” and Meredyth was helping on the back-end side of the business. But as they recognized the different needs their clients had, and as their lifestyle and goals changed, they decided that their business structure had to change as well. So, they set up a crazy deadline for themselves, changed their branding, updated their systems, processes and services, they turned their business into one that works for them.

The three questions Jennie and Meredyth asked themselves as they decided on these changes were:

How do we want to be working?
How do we want to be marketing?
Who do we want to be influenced by?

“75% of what you're already doing is probably going to stay. But making the change of that 25% can just change the game.” - Jennie Mustafa-Julock

Making changes to your business can be intimidating. Or it can be this thing you do on the side that never really ends. This episode is proof that if you prioritize the changes and shape your business to serve you, it will be worth it and you can have the life that you want.

Connect with Jennie & Meredyth:

If Everything Is Trauma Is Anything?

YouTube

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Burnout - the Signal for Change EP 186

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Hey everyone, Sandra here from The Long Game Podcast! Today we're tackling a big one: burnout.

As entrepreneurs, especially those of us in the course and membership site world, we live in launch cycles. Constant selling, content creation, the pressure to keep up... it's enough to make anyone exhausted. But here's the thing: burnout isn't just fatigue. It's a real, WHO-defined syndrome with physical and emotional consequences.

Burnout sneaks up on you: it builds gradually. You might find yourself unmotivated, dreading launches, or even questioning your entire business model.

This is your burnout signal: a nudge to change things up.

Here's the good news: you have the power to make those changes. As an entrepreneur, you're the boss. Forget "better self-care" - listen to your needs and reimagine your business.

Ditch the one-size-fits-all approach and create a system that works for you.

My client story: They launched a successful $2,000 course, but hated the launch cycle. We scrapped it and built a hybrid approach, selling their existing content in a new way. Now, they're excited and fulfilled!

Remember:

Don't just push through: acknowledge your burnout and let it motivate change.
Think creatively: tweak your systems, present your offers uniquely, and embrace innovation.
Breaks are important: rest, exercise, eat well, and sleep to fuel your creative thinking.
Burnout is a cycle: break it by making lasting changes.

Feeling stuck? You're not alone. Tune in for more on creative thinking to keep your business (and you) energized!

Key takeaways:

Burnout is a real syndrome, not just fatigue.
Listen to your burnout signal and make changes.
Create your own business system, not a copycat.
Embrace creative thinking and innovation.
Break the burnout cycle with lasting changes.

Don't let burnout win! Turn it into flow and build a business that works for you.

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5 Takeaways on Writing Trauma EP 185

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0000

This episode of The Long Game is a continuation of episode 184 where I shared the story about getting an invite to attend a panel discussion on writing about trauma, and how my schedule conflicted with the panel, and I wouldn’t be able to attend.

Well, as a happy end to the story, I was able to attend the panel after all, and it was so fulfilling to be in a space that invited me to think and reflect. It inspired and encouraged me.

Here are 5 key takeaways from this panel discussion:

Term of survival, concept of hope, and healing
Explicitness
Relationship between trauma and empathy
Being clear with your personal boundaries
Using form and structure to move through trauma

“Keep at your story and keep digging deeper into telling it.” -Sandra Scaiano

It’s amazing that we’ve developed a culture where we can openly share our experiences without the stigma around trauma. These stories are everywhere; in social media, books, and pop culture, but this doesn’t take away from your own story. Each story is different and equally important. When we share our stories and hear other’s, it lets us know that we’re not alone.

The Trauma Plot

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Acknowledging Our Season Of Life EP 184

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 10:00:00 -0000

As business owners, joining business or industry events is part of the game. We get to build connections, engage in the community, and participate in groups to stay on top of the latest trends, developments, and news. Sometimes, as much as we’d like to join these events, we just can’t. And the reason why may be because of the season of life we’re in, which is what we’re exploring today; the idea of having different seasons of life, and how important it is to live in each one.

“I can’t have it all right now. I’m choosing my priorities.” -Sandra Scaiano

Today I share a recent story about receiving an invitation to an event I want to go to and balancing that with my other roles.

Also discussed:

Designing our own seasons
The importance of each season
Maximizing opportunities at any time

I'm not trapped in the world I created and the season I’m in. I’m here because I want to be here.” -Sandra Scaiano

Each season is important and a part of our journey. Take some time to think about all the seasons you lived through and how they brought you to where you are now. And remember, every season brings its own experiences and challenges, and they all contribute to the person you’re becoming. It’s all part of the long game.

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Email Deliverability with Cheryl Rerick EP 183

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 13:09:00 -0000

A lot of business owners rely heavily on email marketing to connect and engage with their customers. But did you know that on February 1st, there will be a new rule book on emails, and it’ll be harder to get into people’s inboxes? This could be bad news if you’ve spent a lot of time and resources building your email list, but it doesn’t have to be!

Joining us today to guide us through the changes Google, Yahoo (and soon others as well) are making is Cheryl Rerick. She’s an email marketing strategist, automation engineer, and creator of the Automate and Chill™ method.

Cheryl will lay out the changes that will happen and explain in easy terms the authentication process we can do to make sure our email gets into those inboxes.

We also discuss:

Email Automation
Welcome sequences
Trends vs Data

“You can't have blanket strategies, because the truth is everything works, and nothing works.” - Cheryl Rerick

Cheryl also shares some email strategies we can apply, but her biggest advice is about your email list. Know what your customers want, and from there, you can build your strategies. There’s no one right way to write an email.

Listen in to hear all of Cheryl’s tips, and if you want a more in-depth explanation of the new rules, you can attend Cheryl’s on-demand webinar.

Connect with Cheryl Rerick:

Email Deliverability Webinar

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Kind Goal Setting with Abbie Schiller EP 182

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Welcome to the first episode of the new year! And what better way to start than talking all about goals. Did you know that 93% of people fail within 30 days of setting their goals? Today, we break down goal setting to make sure that we're not part of the majority who end up quitting.

“We work with people to change their thoughts so that they can achieve their goals.” - Abbie Schiller

Joining us today is Abbie Schiller. Abbie is a professional goal coach, founder & CEO of The Mother Company, and a manifester. As a coach, she’s deeply invested in improving the lives of others. She’s also the creator of Visioning, a revolutionary course that helps people take an honest look at the results in their lives and decide what and how they want to change.

Abbie introduces us to the concept of "kind goals." Unlike the rigid, strict goals we’re used to, kind goals allow us to be flexible and adjust. They have a have Plan B. Kind goals are fun and connected to who you are and serve who you want to be and bring you closer to the life you want to achieve.

Also discussed in this episode:

The relationship between success, failure, and lessons
Anticipating obstacles and building resilience
The necessary skill of embracing discomfort
The importance of support and community

Abbie also addresses some of the reasons why people give up their goals—lack of clarity, unexpected challenges, undefined steps, or lack of support system. She gives easy, applicable tips on how to deal with them.

“Water boils at 212 degrees. What degree are you giving up at?” - Abbie Schiller

It’s possible to not quit the gym when February comes, or give in to your cravings a week into your new diet. Goals can be achievable and kind at the same time. You can hit your milestones while enjoying the journey. The key is in starting right and playing the long game.

Connect with Abbie Schiller:

Episode 20 with Tracy Otsuka

The Visioning Course

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Creating an App with Picsello Founder Jane Goodrich EP 181

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Have you noticed a big gap in resources in your industry? Have you ever had an idea that would make things easier or more efficient?

You’re going to love my guest this week. In this episode Jane Goodrich, an accomplished photographer who has expanded her business by creating customized software called Picsello joins me to talk about her long game experience taking her idea from concept to development to product launch.

Jane talks about her journey from marketing to photography, her experience mentoring other photographers, and the motivation behind creating Picsello. The software serves as an all-in-one back-end solution for photographers, helping them with pricing, selling, and streamlining their business processes.

This is a great example of seeing a need and figuring out a way to help others succeed. Jane has a passion for photography and she’s equally passionate about helping other photographers make a living doing work they love.

Jane discusses the challenges she faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, her initial idea of teaching a course about photography pricing, and how she pivoted to develop Picsello. The conversation covers the development process, including the initial idea, seeking advice from tech experts, choosing an American development company, and the importance of a strong team.

She’s also upfront about how long it took and why her background in marketing gave her a leg up when working with the development team.

The interview emphasizes the educational aspect of Picsello aiming to help photographers understand the business side of their profession. Jane explains the software's features, including automated emails, client questionnaires, and a business mastermind community. She highlights the importance of customer feedback in shaping the software's roadmap and mentions the joy she finds in helping photographers succeed.

Jane also shares insights into managing her time between photography, software development, and personal health challenges. She emphasizes the value of staying connected to the client services realm to understand market needs and enhance the software's offerings.

In true Long Game style, this conversation provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs looking to extend their brand through software development and emphasizes the significance of community building and continuous learning in the process.

Picsello

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ADHD For Smart Ass Women with Tracy Otsuka EP 180

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

I am so excited because we have a return guest. It’s interesting to see the transformation and growth since my last conversation with her.

Today I’m talking with Tracy Otsuka, who is a certified ADHD coach and the host of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, the podcast, which has had an amazing 5 million downloads. She also moderates a Facebook group by the same name with nearly 100,000 members!

Tracy is releasing her book ADHD for Smart Ass Women on December 26. I am beyond thrilled to have her to talk to us about everything that’s going on.

Tracy explains that whenever she has conversations about ADHD, lives are changed. There’s a brilliant woman with ADHD out there who is thinking, this isn’t me. By the end of this podcast, she’s going to say, that IS me!

Hear how Tracy decided to go with the name ADHD for Smart Ass Women. I wanted to know if there’s any push back or problems with that or has it been a plus for her. She explains that being an outsider is part of who she is as a person, and it’s part of her brand as well. Are some people put off by the name? Maybe, but overall, it’s been a positive.

Tracy also talks about being diagnosed with ADHD later in life and how common that is, especially for women. There are a few reasons for that, and she also explains how the lifestyle changes we all experienced during COVID had an impact as well.

One myth Tracy has busted is that having ADHD means you’re not intelligent or can’t learn. That’s completely the opposite of her experience. Drivenness is a form of hyperactivity. If you are an entrepreneur or a woman always on the go coming up with new ideas and having success with lots of different things and possibly struggle with mundane easy-to-do tasks, then you may want to see if you have ADHD.

ADHD brains are focused on interest, not importance. It’s a big distinction that shows up in lots of ways, both positive and negative.

Tracy outlines 3 things to look for if you think you may have ADHD and how it manifests in women and girls differently than in men and boys. This is eye-opening!

Be sure to check out the discussion about being diagnosed. Who makes those calls? Should you find out or does it matter? What steps can you take and how will it impact your health? Tracy provides loads of insight here that will help simplify any next steps you might want to take.

This entire conversation is so helpful, and fun. Big thanks to Tracy for coming back. I hope you’ll all get a copy of her book and let me know what resonates for you.

Get the Book

ADHD for Smart Ass Women Facebook Group

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Best of 2023 and 2024 Trends for Small Business EP 179

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

We’re winding down 2023 so I’m doing a look back and a look ahead.

Listen in as I review the trends that defined 2023 and look forward to the exciting developments to expect in 2024 for entrepreneurs.

From the rise of super niche online summits to the growing demand for authenticity, we uncover the strategies that will shape the future of business. But as we navigate these trends, I can’t help but wonder what will this mean for the long game of business and life?

Here are a few of the topics that made an impact for me and my clients. I’m sharing how things worked, and what made a difference on a number of topics.

1) The need to stay up to date. Things change and evolve and as small business owners we have to do the same.

2) Online summits. They make an impact when they are done well, and they are evolving too.

3) Masterminds aren’t new but it seems they are more popular than ever. I’m not surprised. The ability to connect with others and get some support and perspective from business peers is something I’ve always found helpful.

4) Digital marketing can’t exist, it seems without the manipulative tactics and guru-driven promises that everyone, everywhere can have million-dollar results in a few easy steps. It impacts all of us who are marketing with integrity.

Additionally, I review the prominence of artificial intelligence (AI) in everyday life and its implications for entrepreneurs. Ignoring the impact and inevitability isn’t a strategy. It’s only going to become more prevalent.

We’ll continue to see improvements and additional capabilities. What are you doing to learn how it impacts your world? I think we’ve got to adapt and grow and using AI where it makes sense and I want to make sure I know how it can be helpful to me and my clients.

I also know there also are lots of discussions about ethics and the legal impacts too. Lots more coming in 2024 on all of this.

I’m also breaking down my thoughts on the impact of the new Google Analytics that was rolled out. Tracking and measuring is important so as business owners we have to adapt to the changes and leverage the opportunities the GA4 brings to SEO strategies.

As we ring in the new year with new possibilities, keep playing the long game in your business and life as well. You know, it's that journey that matters the most. I am thrilled to have you all along for the ride with me. Thank you for listening. I'll see you next week.

Episode 158 Summits

Episode 124 Artificial Intelligence

Episode 125 Artificial Intelligence

Episode 152 Google Analytics 4

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Creative Confidence with Cara Steinmann EP 178

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Unleash your creative potential and defy societal expectations as guest Cara Steinmann challenges the norms, embraces messiness, and empowers business owners to think boldly and authentically, igniting a battle between conformity and innovation.

Cara is a highly accomplished business development strategist, community builder, and certified meditation and mindfulness coach. She has dedicated her career to creating online spaces that empower women entrepreneurs to build successful businesses while prioritizing their mental health.

Through her renowned community, the Literation Lab, Cara provides a platform for women to cultivate their creative confidence and express themselves through writing. With her extensive expertise in creativity and confidence-building, Cara has become a trusted resource for business owners seeking to break free from conventional thinking and implement innovative ideas.

What is Creative Confidence?

The definition that Cara shares is believing in your ability to change the world around you. If you think about it, that's your future. That's the business you're building, the offers you're creating. You have to have the creativity and the confidence to put them out there.

Business as flow.

Creative confidence gets squeezed out of us. Cara shares the NASA study of 1600 kids who were considered creative geniuses at age 5. You’ll be blown away when you hear what happened to their creativity at age 20. When we allow our creativity to flow, we unlock new ideas and new ways to look at our work, and our entire world.

4 Fears that impact our creative confidence:

Fear of the messy unknown.

Fear of being judged.

Fear of the first step.

Fear of losing control.

Cara explains how we’ve forgotten how to find our own answers. Finding answers via google or following the formula that someone else created is a shortcut but we might be missing an even better solution if we noodled on it and really gave some thought to how we might create our own answer.

Creativity and confidence are both muscles. The more you use them, especially without getting criticized, the more they grow. It’s one of the reasons why community can help. Being with people who are interested in supporting one another makes it easier to take a chance on yourself.

The creative spark.

I asked Cara how the Literation Lab helps grow creativity. She shares daily prompts for her audience and herself and they write them for the group to read if they feel comfortable, it’s not required. The prompts are in 7 research-backed pillars to help unlock and grow your confidence while you are being creative.

Mistakes and messiness and letting perfection go.

Life is messy and what if we just allowed the mess and kept moving? What if we learn what we need from having tried instead of worrying about what was wrong. There’s a freedom that comes from being confident, knowing it’s not about perfection, it’s about trying new things and seeing what happens.

Being creative is a practice, like writing or designing. Confidence comes when we give ourselves permission to jump into action and tap into the genius we have inside.

Connect with Cara

Literation Lab

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Zero to Hero with Ben Albert EP 177

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In today’s world, it’s never been easier to implement a new idea, start a new venture, or build up a new business. But it’s also never been more intimidating. There are countless resources telling you how something should be done, and the market can seem incredibly saturated with so many competitors, ads, experts, and millions of content creators. It’s easy to get overwhelmed. If intimidation and fear are getting to you, this episode is going to be your boost of encouragement.

Our guest is Ben Albert. Ben was a sales executive when the pandemic hit, and, like millions of other professionals, he was let go. Today, he shares how this moment was his rock bottom and from this point of zero, he became his own hero. It took a lot of work, creativity, and networking, but in just one year, he was able to launch and grow his marketing company, Balbert Marketing LLC. He also became the curator of the Real Business Connections Network, where he hosts five podcasts.

“Rock bottom was such a blessing in disguise.” - Ben Albert

Insights from Ben’s journey:

How his long-game knowledge helped him when he decided to start his business.

What collaborative partnerships look like and how they help your business.

The necessity of trying something different, new, and creative.

Ben says there’s no such thing as a key to success. Instead, it's a combination lock, and we each have our own unique combination. Each of us has our own idea or definition of success, and we each have our own path to get there.

“What is your creative spark? And how can you bring someone in with you?” - Ben Albert

Tune in to this episode for a dose of inspiration and practical insights as we explore Ben’s remarkable journey from zero to hero.

Connect with Ben:

Naketa Ren Thigpen LinkedIn

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Encore: Becoming Intentionally Selfish with Naketa Ren Thigpen EP 176

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

I love and have embraced the term “intentionally selfish” since I first heard it. To be intentionally selfish is to be unapologetic for raising yourself up. It is to give yourself what you need to heal, and to let go of all the shame from the experiences you went through. This episode is all about being “intentionally selfish.” It’s a gift to yourself, an encouragement to move you further in your healing journey, and a discovery of your goals.

My guest, Naketa Ren Thigpen, is breaking down the importance of being intentionally selfish. She’s a Balance and Relationship advisor, combining the tenants of licensed clinical social work, psychotherapy, trauma work, metaphysics, and coaching. She’s the CEO of personal development company, ThigPro Balance and a podcast host. Also the author of Selfish: Permission to Pause, Live, Love and Laugh Your Way to Joy.

“I’m rebellious by nature. It’s just in my core. You tell me ‘We have to go down this block,’ and I’ll follow you down the block the first time. But I’m literally doing it so I can see the shortcuts that I can do the second time.” – Naketa Ren Thigpen

Topics discussed in this episode:

We need to make the decision for ourselves that we’ve had enough and need to change and heal.
We can either “stay in the box” or “break the box”. We need to choose what we would do.
Do not minimize the pain and experiences you went through just because it’s not worse than what other people have gone through.

“The long game is knowing how to play it, but also finding out your unique shortcuts and ways so you can actually win the game you’re trying to play.” – Naketa Ren Thigpen

Naketa shares her story, how a childhood experience impacted her, needing to learn to let go of a burden that she wasn’t supposed to bear, and how to deal with the shame that went with the experience.

She also breaks down G.I.F.T. which stands for gratitude, imagine, forgiveness, and take action. She describes this process of healing as a gift we give to ourselves. Naketa guides us through each letter and how we can apply them.

If you want to work with Naketa, consider the Intentionally Selfish Suite. It is a Personal Development Incubator deliberately designed to equip and certify women entrepreneurs as they evolve, arrive, and expand the version of themselves that’s unchained, free, unconquerable, and spacious enough to create work/life that serves their highest good.

This episode is jam-packed with Naketa’s wealth of knowledge, words of wisdom, life lessons, and relatable experiences. Listen to the full episode to hear everything she shares.

Links from Today’s Episode:

ThigPro Website

Balance Boldly Podcast

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SOAR on LinkedIn with Donna Serdula EP 175

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

LinkedIn is one of the top social platforms for entrepreneurs and professionals. We know we need to get into it, but it can be intimidating because it also reflects on our professional profile. But what if getting started on LinkedIn doesn’t have to be so intimidating? In this episode, we’ll learn how to get started, transitioned, and consistent on LinkedIn.

“LinkedIn is a hard platform… It’s also one of the kindest networks.” - Donna Serdula

To help us navigate the world of LinkedIn, we have Donna Serdula joining us today. In 2009, Donna walked away from her successful sales career and founded Vision Board Media and LinkedIn-Makeover.com. Her mission is to help people realize their internet identity and shape one that makes an impact and leads to opportunity. Her book, LinkedIn Profile Optimization for Dummies helps professionals get started on the platform.

Donna has built the SOAR Framework. This gets you straight to connecting and engaging on LinkedIn. Start by building a STRATEGY—decide why you’re using LinkedIn, identify your target audience, and develop your brand. Then OPTIMIZE your profile and posts so that the right people will find you. AMPLIFY your brand and message through a strong network. Then it’s time to RELATE and build your network on LinkedIn so that what you post will actually be heard.

Other topics discussed in this episode include:

Practical strategies to build up your network
Getting started on LinkedIn
Engagement strategies to curate the feed you want

“LinkedIn wants the feed to be the people you know talking about the things you care about.” - Donna Serdula

One common perception about LinkedIn is that it’s a platform where you need to be buttoned up and with a stiff upper lip, and that was true—until five years ago. You can speak in your voice and let your personality show in a way that’s true to your brand.

LinkedIn, like other platforms, has an algorithm that’s continuously changing. Sometimes, it’s short posts with photos that do well. Other times, it’s the long-form document posts. The key to maximizing your reach on this platform isn’t to catch the algorithm, it’s to build a large network and post quality, engaging and consistent posts.

For more information and practical tips on getting started on LinkedIn, listen to the full episode, and check out the resources Donna shares on her website.

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Facebook Ads Strategy with Laura Ball EP 174

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Paid advertisements are one of the most effective ways to market your product or service and reach your ideal clients—if done right. However, the nuances of each social media platform's ad manager can feel like entering a new, foreign world. In this episode, we cover multiple Facebook ads strategies with our guest, Laura Ball.

Laura works with 6 to 7-figure clients who sell directly to consumers using the power of paid traffic. She specializes in live launches, but also works with clients around brand awareness, lead generation, and evergreen funnels.

Laura talks about:

Demystifying Facebook ads management
Essentials before hiring a Facebook ads manager
Factors for a successful Facebook ad campaign

“Ads amplify what you are already doing.” - Laura Ball

Laura shares that a key to successful ads is to run tests and fine-tune them. There’s no overnight success in running ads. It’s important to present yourself and effectively communicate who you are so that you can attract the right clients.

Listen in as we unravel the secrets of Facebook ads. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just stepping into the advertising arena, this episode promises valuable insights to elevate your marketing game.

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Stripe Account Hack Awareness with Shannon Mattern EP 173

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

When running a business, it should be expected that sometimes things will go south, and we’ll have to put out fires. Sometimes these situations can be solved in a day with a phone call, but sometimes they can potentially end your business. That’s what happened with our guest today when her Stripe account was hacked.

Shannon Mattern is the founder of the Web Designer Academy where she teaches web designers how to create profitable, sustainable, freelance web design businesses. She also hosts the Profitable Web Designer Podcast where she shares insights and strategies for web design professionals.

In this episode, Shannon talks about her recent experience and relates it to these business lessons:

Be transparent and communicate with your clients
In the middle of a challenge, look for rational and uninvolved perspectives
There’s more than one way to do things

“There's multiple ways to handle any situation. Why not give myself the opportunity to find out all of them and then make a decision with way more information than just what's in my head or I can Google.” - Shannon Mattern

Today’s show highlights the importance of relationships and networks in the business world. Having the right people around you, especially during challenging times, can make a world of difference. But they can only help you to the extent that you’re asking for help. If you don’t share your challenges, the right people who can help you overcome them won’t come.

In the world of business, it’s necessary to have the ability to navigate adversity with resilience, transparency, and with the support of your network. Listen in as we explore the lessons learned from Shannon's experience.

Connect with Shannon Mattern:

Soul Sisters Paranormal Website

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Paranormal with Dr. Kristy Sumner and The Historic Scott County Jail EP 172

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Building a robust multi-faceted business is no easy task, not even for the most seasoned entrepreneur. Creating a business that seamlessly incorporates all of your passions while providing a rewarding and fulfilling experience at the same time is the ultimate goal for many people building a business.

Dr. Kristy Sumner has successfully combined her passion for historical stories and paranormal into two businesses: Soul Sisters Paranormal, and The Historic Scott County Jail Museum.

The work that she does is totally fascinating to me, but maybe paranormal isn’t your jam and that’s okay. What stands out the most about Kristy is the way she’s created two businesses that flow so well together that allow her to live the life she finds most fulfilling.

“If you look at us, just from the outside, it looks like we have a very robust company, but it’s just the two of us.” -Dr. Kristy Sumner

Key areas we’re highlighting in this episode

Kristy’s first overnight stay in a haunted penitentiary, developing passion and excitement
Learning the technical skills it takes to produce the content they want to share
How a collaboration turned into a reopening of a historical location with paranormal research

Martin Yan, a chef and food writer says, “when you enjoy what you do, work becomes play.” For Kristy, she’s allowed herself to lean into her passions for fun, play, and discovery in the presence of her friends. She’s turned a corporate background and life as a college professor into a life that is filled with excitement. The excitement of researching historical stories and investigating paranormal activity is one aspect of it, but she’s also leaning into solving problems and learning new skills that allow her to build something meaningful.

“We wanted to start out with a bang and really show people that we are legitimate in what we're doing.” -Dr. Kristy Sumner

Mentioned in this episode:

Lizzie Borden Story

Connect with Dr. Kristy Sumner

Historic Scott County Jail Website

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How To Innovate In Your Business EP 171

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

As business owners who want to see our business grow, we want to find ways to be innovative and set ourselves apart from the competition. Whether it’s in our messaging, our products, our processes, or our marketing, we’re constantly looking for ways to be different. Being innovative also positions us as an industry leader and as a brand that’s in touch with our customers' needs. It helps separate us from the pack when our market feels oversaturated.

“Trailblazing is pushing the idea further or taking it to a new audience.” -Sandra Scaiano

In this episode, Sandra discusses ways we can spark innovation in our business and how to find creative ways to grow.

Four ways to bring innovation to your business:

Make it normal to think creatively
Start with the components of your offer
Ask what your strengths are
Look to collaborate

“Whether it's a small tweak or a big breakthrough, now is the time to be innovating.” - Sandra Scaiano

When uncertainty strikes or there’s a need for fresh ideas, we need to ask ourselves these questions: What makes us different? What innovation can we bring to the table? This mindset sets us up for growth, towards innovation, reimagined business models, and a reinvented customer experience. Whether it's a minor tweak or a groundbreaking revelation, remember, the time to innovate is now.

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Turn your Course from Transactional to Transformational with Lesley Clavijo!

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of the Long Game, we dive deep into the world of online courses and memberships. If you're a course developer, you've likely asked “How can I make my course better?” We all want to produce content and materials that are effective and transformational. We want to provide value and help people, and this episode will give you insight on how to do just that.

“We want to make a bigger impact because of course, we want to help as many people as we can.” - Lesley Clavijo

We’re joined by Lesley Clavijo, an instructional designer who believes that teaching is more than just the transformation of information, it's about the entire learner's experience. She helps course creators elevate their programs so that their students get results so good that they can’t help but tell everyone about their results.

Three points discussed in this episode are:

What makes a course successful
Features in courses that improve the learning experience
Marketing inside your course

Lesley introduces us to her recipe for transformational courses, the "Premium Program Pie."

This pie has six essential ingredients: intentional, interactive, inclusive, intuitive, inspirational, and infinite. By incorporating these elements, your course can go beyond just being transactional. Having these ingredients will deliver better results, create more impact, and be transformative.

“Your course is never done. You're going to continuously improve your course over time.” - Lesley Clavijo

Ready to transform your course into an unforgettable journey of growth and learning? Listen to the full episode to start your transformational journey today.

Connect with Lesley Clavijo:

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Getting Out of a Funk EP 169

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

As entrepreneurs, we often find ourselves wearing many hats and juggling multiple tasks and projects at the same time. Some tasks demand our attention daily, weekly or monthly, like invoicing, communication, or client work. Meanwhile, we have projects that can significantly impact our businesses, the ones we need to prioritize to grow. Yet, with our plates always full, it can be a tricky balancing act. Eventually, we get stuck in a rut, and we experience a significant setback.

Today, we talk about how we can get out of a rut and explore how we can stay inspired and motivated on our long game journey toward achieving our goals.

“Your goals can’t all happen in one day, but you do have to continually work at it.” -Sandra Scaiano

Some practical action steps shared in this episode are:

Define your why
Have a clear goal
Visualize success
Lean into your network

“Motivation comes from action, and action can be the smallest step.” -Sandra Scaiano

In entrepreneurship, maintaining motivation and constantly moving forward are needed for long-term success. Even after significant setbacks, we can choose to get back our drive. Remember, it's not just about staying busy. It's about staying inspired and always moving forward.

Now, let's reignite that spark of motivation and keep pushing forward on your journey. Your long game begins now.

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Building More Inclusive Businesses with Dr. Raymona Lawrence EP 168

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The Long Game, we’re talking about the different ways to practice inclusive business practices with Dr. Ramona Lawrence. We’ll be talking about messaging and learning what diversity really is, how it’s a two-way process to reach it, and how we can incorporate it into our businesses.

“What is my thriving community?... How do I do things to make sure that I do things and I have practices that will help all of them to thrive?” - Dr. Ramona Lawrence

Dr. Raymona Lawrence is the Founder and CEO of Dr. Raymona H Lawrence Coaching, LLC-A Software/Systems as a Service (SAAS) Agency. Her life's work and heartfelt mission is to help individuals and organizations incorporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion into their business strategy and systems so they can authentically connect with, recruit, and retain diverse networks of customers and team members. Dr. Lawrence is also a DEI Strategist, Speaker, Coach, and Consultant for network marketers, small business owners, and solopreneurs.

In this episode, Dr. Lawrence shares:

What diversity really means.
Her ROAR framework and how it supports business growth in diverse communities
The differences in each of our experiences

“If we've been able to respect differences in people and incorporate them into our systems, then we can create that culture of belonging and where people just feel like that they want to be there.” - Dr. Ramona Lawrence

We’ll share some of the day-to-day experiences and practices we have where we can incorporate different perspectives so that we can create systems and environments that welcome in everybody.

Connect with Dr. Ramona Lawrence:

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Building a Content Fortress with Lyndsay Cambridge & Martin Huntbach EP 167

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In today’s digital world, there are countless ways to market yourself and your business, to the point where it can feel overwhelming and daunting. Sometimes, despite producing top-quality content, we still can’t seem to attract our ideal clients. Our guests today will help demystify the digital marketing landscape and break down the key content strategies you should be using.

“One of the best tools for communication is story.” - Martin Huntbach

Joining us today are Martin Huntbach and Lindsay Cambridge, the duo behind Jammy Digital, an award-winning SEO and content marketing agency for business owners who aren't afraid to stand out. Their bestselling book, "Content Fortress," breaks down eight content pillars that will help your business.

Here are some things we discuss in this episode:

Utilizing both long and short-form content
How repelling and attracting content will save you time and bring in your ideal clients
How culture content impacts your interaction with clients

“What's the entire journey from start to finish from awareness right through the buying cycle and beyond?” - Martin Huntbach

Martin and Lindsay also break down all we need to know about sales content. This is something that a lot of us are uncomfortable writing because we don’t want to come across as too sales-y or in-your-face, but this is more than just presenting yourself. It’s about letting your ideal clients know who you are and how you can help them. It’s about starting the customer journey even before they book a call with you or sign a contract.

Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your digital marketing game. Be sure to grab a copy of "Content Fortress" and tap into all the knowledge and strategies shared by our guests. Listen in if you’re ready to take your content strategy to the next level.

Connect with Jammy Digital:

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Inner Work for Business with Kami Guildner EP 166

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The Long Game Podcast, we delve into the essential aspects of entrepreneurship that can transform your business into a soulful and impactful journey. Today's conversation weaves into one conversation different topics including authenticity in business, core values, time management, and structuring your venture. To share her insights in this conversation, we’re joined by Kami Guildner.

Kami is not your typical entrepreneur. She’s the Founder of the Extraordinary Women Ignite Conference, Extraordinary Women Connect events, and host of the award-winning Extraordinary Women Radio™ – a podcast igniting a new paradigm of entrepreneurship with Soul+Strategy at its heart. She has a passion for bringing together a sisterhood of influential women to learn, connect, and inspire, each dedicated to raising up her voice, her vision, and her visibility to lead soulful, wildly successful businesses of impact.

“You can't outsource your leadership of thought.” - Kami Guildner

Here are some things we discuss:

Authenticity leads to the right relationships in our business
The importance of listening inside, scheduling CEO time and opening up to our wisdom and our intuition for the growth of our business
How having a balance across our mindset, body, spirit, and community affects how we show up for our business

“People fall in love with your soul, not your face.” - Kami Guildner

Kami also shares her SMART acronym: Simplification, Market, Ascending, Repeatable, Time Prosperity. These are the fundamental characteristics and foundations of a business that came out of her goal to build businesses that offer both time and wealth prosperity.

This episode is a deep dive into the soulful and strategic dimensions of entrepreneurship. Kami's insights and experiences serve as an example for those who want to run their businesses with authenticity, purpose, and prosperity. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business leader, you’ll find something in this episode that you’ll resonate deeply with.

Connect with Kami:

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Entrepreneurs On Fire with Kate Erickson EP 165

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The Long Game, we're diving into the world of podcasting, entrepreneurship, and transparency as a business strategy. If you want to learn about building a thriving podcast, cultivating a passionate community, and achieving financial freedom, stick around because this episode is just for you.

Our guest today is the remarkable Kate Erickson, a bona fide luminary in the podcasting and entrepreneurial universe. As the co-founder of Entrepreneurs on Fire podcast and a pioneer of many successful podcasts and courses, she's here to drop some serious wisdom and actionable insights.

In this episode, we’ll be discussing:

● The benefits and opportunities that come from podcasts

● Maximizing opportunities for engagement

● Building and fostering communities

“Being an open book is not easy all of the time, but it's a core value of mine to share what I know and not hold anything back.” - Kate Erickson

This episode is full of AHA! moments, as Kate walks us through her experiences and lessons learned. She highlights the role that transparency and connection play in the modern business landscape, and we get an insider's look at how income reports and other innovative strategies aren't just about numbers—they’re about building trust and guiding your audience to their own success. Kate's story is an example of the power of staying true to your vision while nurturing genuine connections within your community.

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The Life Feast with Lizzie LaRock Bonus Replay EP 164

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The concept of the long game is sticking with it. It’s also about recognizing that you are on your unique journey. No two people have the same path. With all creative endeavors, you have the chance to show up your way, in your style.

Today we’re talking with Lizzie LaRock and we’re discussing the power of creativity. She’s the creator of The Life Feast, a one-of-a-kind program she calls a movement and a mission.

Lizzie shares how she came up with the name “Life Feast”. She explains how this phrase came to her during a particularly difficult time in her own life. We are meant to have lives of joy after all! It’s not just about working and paying bills.

How can we use creativity to live a bigger life?

One way Lizzie made space for more in life was to sign up for piano lessons; something she’d always wanted to do. She had this realization when one of her daughters wanted to stop her lessons. She realized she was sad about it because she’d always wanted to learn to play.

How can we switch from consuming to creating?

There’s nothing wrong with streaming your favorite shows or checking out Tik Tok videos. Lizzie and I talk about how we focus on creating more often and use consuming content for fun and sometimes for inspiration.

Creativity is a state, not a trait. It’s a muscle that we all have and can build upon.

Lizzie shares why using her iPhone is what works best for her when she’s creating. It’s a great reminder to use what we have and take 15 minutes to take photos when you’re inspired.

To spark creativity Lizzie shares prompts to help people see their world with a new perspective. Here’s a few examples:

Worms eye view

Shoot from the hip

Focus on a specific color (what pops up?)

Birds eye view

I love that these prompts can be integrated into part of your day. It’s not about setting aside an hour with a planned agenda. It’s about noticing what’s right in front of you and seeing it in a new way.

Lizzie explains that she encourages a growth mind-set. No one was born with a great eye, knowing exactly how to create the perfect photo. Embracing your view, your imperfections and your perspective is what makes you interesting. It is what makes your creativity unique to you.

Think play, curiosity, and sense of wonder. It’s something any of us can do as we begin to create. It allows all of us to be in flow leaving stress and perfection behind.

Lizzie also brings the science. She teaches mindfulness based in the rigorously researched, evidence-based, scientific study of positive psychology.

She calls her course a “gateway” drug. Many of her members move into other types of creative practices like painting, or writing, or acting etc. It’s a way to open up your creativity and your curiosity.

We need 3 positives for every negative in our day.

We are hard-wired to recall the negative things in life for survival purposes. Creative work helps us embrace and hold onto the positive. She explains the practice of savoring and shares several great examples that anyone can do.

Reclaim your creativity!

Connect with Lizzie:

Life Feast Info https://www.larockstarcreative.com/the-life-feast-sales-page

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lizzielarock/

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The StoryBrand Framework with Heather Frechette-Crowley EP 163

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Within the first seconds of seeing your website, visitors make the decision of whether they will stay or leave, affecting whether or not they will work with you. The StoryBrand Framework is an effective way of communicating on your website and other marketing channels. It is based off of the book Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller which was later on developed into a course, then a certification.

My guest in this episode is Heather Frechette-Crowley, Founder and Principal of Root Marketing and certified StoryBrand guide.

“Your website is not about you, but for your client.” - Heather Frechette-Crowley

In this insightful discussion, we focus on the crucial elements of your website's home page. We delve into every feature, detail, and piece of information that should—and should not—be present. We explore essential components like the one-liner, header, call-to-action buttons, and more. And we will explore three key points:

● How to make your client the hero

● Using scarcity and limitations to communicate your message

● Utilizing the power of clarity

“When we try to be clever or quirky, we sacrifice clarity.” - Heather Frechette-Crowley

Yes, your website is an excellent tool to build credibility and establish yourself as an authority in your field. However, its primary purpose is to help visitors determine if they want to work with you. By crafting your website with intention and utilizing the StoryBrand Framework, you create a platform that resonates with your audience and drives meaningful connections.

Tune in to this episode to gain invaluable insights and practical tips for building a compelling website that truly speaks to your clients and fosters lasting connections.

Connect with Heather Frechette-Crowley:

Connect with Sandra:

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Anchor Pages with Kristy Krywko Bonus Replay EP 162

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is the person who introduced me to the concept of morning pages. Julia Cameron, author of The Artists Way, explains them this way:

Morning Pages are three pages of longhand, stream of consciousness writing, done first thing in the morning. *There is no wrong way to do Morning Pages*– they are not high art. They are not even “writing.” They are about anything and everything that crosses your mind– and they are for your eyes only. Morning Pages provoke, clarify, comfort, cajole, prioritize and synchronize the day at hand. Do not over-think Morning Pages: just put three pages of anything on the page...and then do three more pages tomorrow.

This is an exercise that helps you have more consciousness during your day. It’s a process to help open your creativity. It’s all about uncovering, getting unstuck.

Today’s guest, Krysty Krywko, has her own process called anchor pages. She uses art and creativity to help people heal.

First up we talk about how Krysty chose to rebrand herself and her business. She shared why she knew she needed to make the change AND admitted why it felt so hard to release the old name/brand.

“I can change my mind anytime I want to change my mind”. – Krysty

Krysty shares her anchor pages process and how she uses this in her own work. It’s working through a series of prompts.

Name it and claim the emotions you are feeling right now.
How do you want to feel?
What actions do you need to take?

She reminds us that the actions are usually small steps that allow us to make a change.

She’s using this process with creativity to help clients with sobriety and recovery. She encourages using a journal to allow for creative expression when doing this work. I know for sure that we are all recovering from something, and this process is something anyone can do.

Krysty reminds us that it’s perfectly fine to start where you are, with what you have. Use the kids crayons and markers, cut photos out of magazines. Her advice: don’t censure. Just start.

The power lies in the process.

Hear how this process is different from creating a vision board. Krysty shares how some of her clients have use this journal-creating-process to gain clarity in life. She also explains 3 of her favorite ways to get started so you aren’t working with a blank page.

Final words: Start where you are. Don’t worry about showing anyone else and remember that there are no rules. You can’t do it wrong!

Connect with Krysty

Lume Cube Table Top light

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Online Courses versus Membership Site Bonus Replay EP 161

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

I’m starting a series with one of my favorite topics; online courses and memberships. There’s so much to review here, I’m breaking it up into a series so I can cover it all. I jumped into this a couple of years ago with some of my clients and I want to share what I’ve learned. We are seeing success with online learning in general and specifically, women who have launched courses are seeing success. Even those just starting are finding a place for their online offers.

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How To Start A Podcast - Part 2 Post-Product & Marketing EP 160

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Launching a podcast and preparing your episodes for listeners is just the beginning. Once your podcast is live, there’s still post-production work and marketing so it can reach your audience. That’s what we’re discussing today with my dear friend, Susan Winkler.

Sue is the co-owner of Soma Vayu Garden, a New Jersey-based yoga and cultural wellness studio, and she’s also considering starting her own wellness podcast. She had a bunch of really good, insightful, questions for me that I’m sure every entrepreneur looking to start a podcast wants to know the answers to.

Here are the three key lessons from this episode:

Repurposing your podcast content to reach a wider audience on different platforms.
Leveraging tools and technology to streamline your podcasting process.
Identifying practical and authentic ways to market your podcast effectively.

“The more true you are to yourself and to bringing your content forward, the more that audience is going to find you.” -Sandra Scaiano

You don't have to implement every marketing strategy available. Instead, focus on understanding the various strategies so you can identify the ones that resonate with you and will be most effective in reaching your target audience. Find your unique approach and let your authentic content shine.

Connect with Sue Winkler:

Soma Vayu Garden

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How To Start A Podcast - Part 1 EP 159

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

I’ve been doing this podcast for three years now, and in that time, I’ve learned some tricks of the trade and noticed some trends. Podcasts remain a powerful content vehicle for sharing your voice, viewpoints, and connecting with your audience. When my good friend Susan Winkler asked me, "What do you need to know to start a podcast?" I invited her to join me in this two-part series where she interviews me and asks all her burning questions as a total podcast newbie.

Sue, co-owner of Soma Vayu Garden, a New Jersey-based yoga and cultural wellness studio, is considering starting her own podcast. Today we dive into the technical and production aspects of podcasting.

In this episode, I talk about the equipment you’ll need, like microphones, recording software, and lights, and also about the music, intros and outros, editing, and hosting. I’ll guide you through the entire process from planning to having your episode ready for your audience to hear.

If you're considering starting your own podcast, I’ll address all the questions you've asked and even those you didn't know to ask. Should I start a podcast? Is it worth it to have a podcast? Would I have the time and resources to sustain the podcast? What equipment do I need? Where do I even start?

“You can start one way and move yourself up another way.” -Sandra Scaiano

Podcasting is a personal journey, and your experience will be unique to you. The decisions you make as you go along will depend on your specific situation, goals, and available resources. This episode will help you identify the key factors influencing those decisions and help you start your own podcasting adventure.

Be sure to stay tuned for the next episode, where we'll delve into post-production and marketing strategies for your podcast.

Connect with Sue Winkler:

Relevant Links:

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Spectacular Summits with Larissa Russell and Malva Gasowski EP 158

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode, we delve into the world of summits and what it takes to run a successful one. Summits offer entrepreneurs valuable networking opportunities, industry training, and a platform to market themselves and grow their audience. But behind the scenes, there are countless moving parts that contribute to a summit's success. Join us as we uncover the secrets to hosting a remarkable summit.

“Summits are a lot of work. Do it wrong and you’ll learn how much work it is.” - Larissa Russell

Our guests today are Larissa Russell and Malva Gasowski, the founders of Spectacular Summits, a company dedicated to hosting impactful summits and assisting clients in organizing their own. Larissa, known as the Summit Queen, is an entrepreneur, international bestselling author, speaker, artist, coach, and healer. With her extensive experience running summits for herself and other experts, Larissa brings unparalleled expertise to the table. Malva, an instructional designer, business trainer, summit creator, executive coach, and international bestselling author, is also a key figure in the summit space.

Together, they also host the Elevate Your Kajabi Business Summit, a premier event that focuses on delivering proven advanced strategies and tactics for scaling Kajabi businesses and achieving long-term success.

Throughout this episode we address key questions, including:

What value do summits bring to entrepreneurs and their businesses?
Is hosting or participating in a summit a worthwhile investment for your business?
Should you speak at a summit?

“As a summit speaker, I’m collaborating with someone else.” - Malva Gasowski

Dispelling a common perspective that the other speakers and participants and summits are “competitors,” the ladies remind us that we’re collaborating rather than competing with one another. When professionals from the same industry come together, we bring our expertise, knowledge, and connections to the table. By embracing collaboration, we can collectively grow and support each other's success.

Tune in to this episode to gain insights from Larissa and Malva on how to create and leverage summits for maximum impact.

Connect with Larissa Russell:

Connect with Malva Gasowski:

Connect with Spectacular Summits:

Elevate Your Kajabi Business Summit

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Walking the Camino de Santiago with Lisa Corrado EP 157

Fri, 26 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

There are times when we doubt whether or not something is possible. Whether it’s a big goal, a trip we dreamed of, a little “what if?” thought. In this episode, we’re talking about if that thing we want to do is possible (spoiler alert: it is!), and the amazing things that happen when we let go of our control a little bit. And who better to talk about this than today’s guest, Lisa Corrado.

Lisa is a coach and champion for small business owners & entrepreneurs. She’s a cancer survivor and wildly enthusiastic traveler who is right now (as of the release of this episode) walking the entire 500+ miles of the Camino de Santiago in Northern Spain.

“Sometimes it’s easy, and sometimes it’s hard. But it all gets done.” - Lisa Corrado

Lisa shares how her trip’s been so far, meeting different people, the miles of nature, historical sites, culture, and all the food. But how did she prepare for this two-month trip, and how does she manage to do it all while staying connected, running her business, and servicing her clients?

Here's a few of the lessons Lisa learned:

When you decide to do something, things will align and fall into place for what you want to happen.
When you loosen your hold and let go of the idea that things have to happen your way, you open up a different path that would have been better and easier than anything you could have planned for.
Open yourself up to meeting people and experiences that will restore your faith in humanity.

“In my business, when I loosen my grip and don’t hold things too tightly, it grows faster than it did before.” - Lisa Corrado

This trip was something that Lisa decided to do, and she did what she could to make it happen, then the rest fell into place. She’s someone who reinforces the lessons she’s learned and exemplifies the things she teaches. This is part of the reason why her clients trust her so much. Listen to this full episode to learn more from her.

Connect with Lisa Corrado:

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Creativity, Collaboration, and Craftsmanship with Blueprint Lighting Founder, Kelly Aaron EP 156

Fri, 19 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

When we first start our own business, we have big dreams and grand plans, but we don’t really know if it will take off. Today we hear the inspiring story of Kelly Aaron, who shows us that with perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to building relationships, success is within reach.

“Our biggest limit is self-imposed.” - Kelly Aaron

Kelly opened her first business over 20 years ago. Fueled by her passion for modern design and art, she curated museum exhibitions and facilitated the sale of rare pieces through esteemed auction houses. In 2016, Kelly founded Blueprint Lighting, a company that has since earned a reputation for crafting exquisite, modern fixtures.

Blueprint Lighting started from a lightbulb moment with a dismantled light fixture in a garage. From this spark of creativity, the company embarked on a transformative journey that led to its present-day prominence. Here are 3 things you can learn from Kelly’s story.

You can just start and figure it out as you go.
Prioritize exceptional care for your clients.
Actively cultivate meaningful relationships.

“You have to be willing to go, I’m not fully in control of this, but even if I get the least out of it, I’m okay with that.” - Kelly Aaron

Kelly sheds light on the importance of planting seeds in our business and patiently nurturing their growth. We may not have control over how or when these seeds will flourish, or which opportunities will materialize, but we need to continue planting them. Because we never know what will come out of a favor we grant, or valuable offering we give, or an email we send. Who knows? That rush order over Thanksgiving might lead to one of your biggest clients.

Connect with Kelly Aaron:

Contact Blueprint Lighting:

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Lessons Learned from Universal Studios EP 155

Fri, 12 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode, we're exploring the tools used by one of the biggest theme parks, Universal Studios. By studying their systems and processes, we can learn how to use the same tools in our own businesses and play the long game like a pro.

Here are some of the things Universal Studies does right to make sure their park is a success and guests enjoy every step of their experience:

Plan - Before any construction took place, not only did they plan the park layout, but they also considered where the guests would line up for rides, and where they’d get in and out. Before each ride, as the guest gets closer, they placed different elements to build anticipation and expectations. As they exit the ride, they made the guests exit through a gift shop, enticing them to make more purchases.
Leverage automation - Many of the rides are automated and timed perfectly so that while the guests are waiting, their anticipation and excitement increases. They also use biometrics for ticketing. Not only does this prevent ticket sharing, but the guests go through the lines much faster and smoother.
Be creative and innovative - There are many gift shops around Universal, and yes, they have the standard collectibles and fun items for each franchise, but they also sell high quality, useful items, like backpacks. They had a limited-edition Marge Simpson backpack made with Hershel, and I bought this not only because of the brand, but also because I was able to use it while we were going around the park.

“It’s good to notice the processes that the big guys utilize, and to know that you have the power to incorporate the same successful concepts into your own business.” -Sandra Scaiano

By studying the proven methods of Universal Studios, you can unlock a treasure trove of insights and strategies that you can apply to your own business. From streamlining your processes to leveraging innovative technology, there's a lot to learn from these successful companies. Don't be intimidated by their size or resources; instead, use them as inspiration to take your own game to the next level. Remember, playing the long game is about consistent growth and improvement, and by adding these tools to your toolbox, you're setting yourself up for success.

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3 Branding Mistakes on Your Website & Landing Pages EP 154

Fri, 05 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Branding is one of the most important factors in your business. It’s more than just a set of pretty colors and fancy fonts. It’s what sets you apart, how your audience can identify you, and the expectations you set about what you do and who you are. It is the first level of communication you have with your audience.

“Branding requires a wide range of skills, including graphic design know-how, copywriting, and an understanding of marketing strategies.” - Sandra Scaiano

With all the intricacies and layers that go into branding, here are three mistakes you might be making:

DIY colors and logos
Font choice and low readability
Using stock photos

I’m not a DIY hater. I understand that sometimes DIY might be necessary, especially for those who are just starting out and on a tight budget. But when you do things yourself, you may miss little details that the pros take into consideration when helping you build your brand, such as readability and how the design looks across platforms.

“It’s easy to struggle when you go the DIY route, and it’s hard to create a brand that communicates your values and resonates with your target audience.” -Sandra Scaiano

Today I dive deep into this topic and also share how you can avoid these mistakes. With a little research and a little help, you can curate an online image that really showcases your brand and who you are.

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Building Community on Instagram with Sue B. Zimmerman EP 153

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

There’s a common belief that in order to build your Instagram following, create a viral post, or develop your community, Instagram would have to be treated as a second job, almost. You may think you have to spend hours and hours to craft that perfect post and connect with people. But how true (or false) is this claim? That’s what we’re taking a deep dive into today.

“For every business, you need people behind it to talk about and endorse it and tell their friends about it in order to scale and grow… It’s the power of the people that amplify opportunity.” - Sue B. Zimmerman

Who better to guide us through the Instagram landscape than Sue B. Zimmerman? Sue teaches small business owners how to become the go-to authority in their industry by using Instagram marketing strategies to establish and grow an engaged following that converts. She’s built my career empowering entrepreneurs and marketing professionals to utilize the power of Instagram to get tangible business results.

Here are three common questions about Instagram that Sue guides us through:

How we’re supposed to keep up with all the changes
What makes an effective Instagram post?
How do we present ourselves on Instagram?

“At the end of the day, the most important thing in a business is relevant content. And if you’re not speaking to your audience with the content they want to see, hear, laugh to, look at, save, all of that, growth is hard, and building community is even harder.” - Sue B. Zimmerman

More than the understanding of Instagram as a platform and getting into the nitty gritty of effective posts, Sue reminds us that at the end of the day, it’s is a free tool. Yes, we need to define our brand and develop our processes, but having those will significantly decrease the time we spend on the platform and will improve the way we can create connections.

Sue kindly offered my listeners a free downloadable in-depth Instagram guide. All you have to do is go to her latest Instagram post, comment your questions and thoughts about this episode if you have one, and ask for the download.

Connect with Sue B. Zimmerman:

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Website Data Collection & Google Analytics 4 EP 152

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

I've been where you are - struggling to make informed marketing decisions and wanting to drive growth for my business. By diving into Google Analytics, I discovered the importance of audience segmentation, targeted ads, and remarketing to increase conversion rates and engage potential customers.

I'm sharing what I’ve learned so you can get better results with your own online business marketing. In today's competitive online landscape, effectively utilizing Google Analytics for website optimization is essential to unlock your business's true potential.

The power of data analytics gives you insights into your audience's behavior so you can develop targeted marketing strategies. It’s one of the most effective methods for online growth.

Understanding how to successfully leverage Google Analytics to ensure that your business stands out from the competition is key for growing and thriving in today’s online world.

In this episode I’m covering major changes to Google Analytics, specifically Google Analytics 4 (GA4) which is going to be the only option starting July 1, 2023. If you have Google Analytics now, you’ll need to export your data because it will all start new come July.

If you’re new to this, hang with me. I know it is techy and can be overwhelming but understanding how this can work for you is really important and I’m here to help.

A few things to know:

This episode is for anyone who has a website, be it WordPress, Kajabi, Shopify, Squarespace, ClickFunnels, and more. All of these various website applications allow for GA4 integration.
If all of this is new to you, no worries. Start today, where you are with the basics covered in this episode.
Tracking codes are what allows GA4 (and other applications) to track who comes to your website, and what happens while they are there. It’s really that simple.
Using that info, you can determine how people are finding you, and how they move through your site. Are they opting into your funnel? What happens at checkout? This is the type of data GA4 can provide.
The whole point of all this info is to help you make better decisions about how you market your business and where to put your resources.

There are some privacy issues and I cover those in detail on the podcast. I also outline how and why I’m comfortable with data gathering, as a business owner and as a consumer.

Start with the basics.

Set up Google Analytics account and install tracking code.
Conduct regular website audits, focusing on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as bounce rates, conversion rates, and average time spent on site. By keeping track of these KPIs, you can pinpoint areas where improvement is needed and respond with targeted solutions.
When ready you can integrate with Google Ads. I outline some great examples that you’ll recognize right away. Now you’ll know why you see ads for something the day after you do a search for it!

The importance of leveraging Google Analytics for business cannot be overstated.

I know this can feel overwhelming. The idea of having analytics and data sounds great but I know many of you may not have an interest figuring all of this out on your own.

If that’s the case, reach out. I’d love to help. We can take some time to strategize about what data you need to see and what you want to analyze to meet your particular goal.

Now is the time to get this set up so you can begin gathering the info that’s important to you and your business.

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Ancient Herbs In Modern Ways with Shannon Mayernick EP 151

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

As business owners in different fields, we might be working in different industries, but as we interact with other entrepreneurs and hear about their journey, we learn that we share many of the obstacles, struggles, and experiences. Today, we’re talking all about the journey of building an herbal apothecary business, and sharing the lessons learned along the way.

With us today is Shannon Mayernik. She’s an herbalist and plant medicine maker based in Northern New Jersey. Shannon is also the Co-Owner of Mayernik Kitchen, a modern day Herbal Apothecary. Shannon is participating in a year-long clinical program for herbal medicine and continues to study and teach herbalism to her community.

“It’s all about community, creating your group. You have one another to lean on, to learn from, to share with.” - Shannon Mayernick

In the business Shannon runs, she has to think about so many things, from farming, harvest season, pest control, developing and making products, delivery, community engagement, content creation, course development, apprenticeships, and even just the everyday management of the business. So how does she do it all? Well, many things go into the success of Mayernick Kitchen, and Shannon shares her journey through it all.

Here are three entrepreneurship lessons we all can learn:

Make your own opportunities by putting yourself in situations outside your everyday life, and when the opportunities come, you just take it and start.
It’s important to have a system and streamlined process, but this will take time and experience to develop and perfect.
You have the power to create an environment that your community will engage in.

“Sometimes, it does seem a little more magical or romantic. And some days it’s completely out of control. But if you’re creating something for you, a family, a friend, you want to put good intentions into it.” - Shannon Mayernick

Another thing that helps her business succeed? Shannon puts intentionality in everything she does, whether it’s in preparing the tinctures to sell, or creating content for Instagram. Shannon approaches everything she does with the intention of it helping and being for someone else, and this intentionality can be felt every time people interact with her business.

If you want to learn from Shannon, I highly recommend the recently launched online course, The Table, where you can learn about gardening, farming, herbalism, suburban homesteading, and everything in between, and also be surrounded by a community of people like you. Long Game listeners get a 10% discount with the code TheLongGame23.

Connect with Shannon Mayernick:

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Episode 150! Introducing Testing To Your Business EP 150

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

As business owners and entrepreneurs, we experience so many different situations that require us to be light on our feet and we have to make quick decisions. In those times, it’s all about making the decisions now. But other times, there’s a need to make calculated, data-driven decisions. And I think a lot of us prefer this so we can have more time and information before we make a decision.

So how do we get the data we need for our businesses? One way is to do testing, and this is what I’m talking with you about on this episode.

“Data-backed decisions are not based on a whim.” -Sandra Scaiano

From as early as my college days, I’ve seen how companies conduct tests. It can be either in the quality of their products or the quality of the materials they use. Tests can also be run before you launch a large marketing plan. Tests aren’t a waste of resources in the short term. They help us make better decisions in the long run.

These tests bring so many benefits to our businesses. They can save us money on the resources and strategies we invest in. We can develop better products and services, then trust and loyalty is built between us and our clients.

“Honing in on strategies builds stronger relationships and loyalty.” -Sandra Scaiano

Now, you might be asking, “What type of tests can we be running?” or “What are the mechanisms to collect data?” Great questions! And I’m going to be addressing them in upcoming Data and Tracking episodes, so send your questions my way, and stay tuned for them.

Listen in to hear more about the benefits of testing, and how I’ve personally applied it to my business.

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Mindfulness for Entrepreneurs with Juan Alvarez

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Over the past several years, there’s been a rise in life coaches, meditation teachings, and self-help programs, and a lot of them can feel so disconnected and impersonal that people want to distance themselves from them. That’s a shame because when done right, mindfulness, awareness and meditation have so much benefit. The key is to find what works for us, to find something we connect with. This is exactly what today’s guest does.

Juan Alvarez is an Executive Coach and mindfulness teacher for entrepreneurs. His goal is to help conscious leaders stay present, peaceful, and purposeful so they can bring their best selves to the world. This is why he developed his coaching programs and hosts the Life is the Practice podcast.

These lessons in mindfulness, being present, healing and letting go of the past that Juan learned through the years are now the lessons he teaches to others. I love the approach that he applies. He only teaches what he does, and he’s conscious to not get too attached to his teaching and to still be approachable and relatable to his students. He keeps everything practical and applicable for a lot of people.

“Because we are not present in our inner experience, we tend to operate from patterns of fear, anxiety, and scarcity all the time.” - Juan Alvarez

Juan answers these questions about mindfulness in this episode:

The difference between being present, mindfulness, and meditation.
Why it’s important to be present in the moment.
How we can live in awareness and achieve a state of mindfulness.
How we can integrate mindfulness into our everyday, busy lives.

Sometimes it can take a long time for us to become aware that we need to make some changes in our lives and approach things in a different way. Juan didn’t start being intentional about learning these skills until he was in his early thirties, but after applying them, he immediately saw the effects across all areas of his life.

“You can only help others to the extent that you have helped yourself.” - Juan Alvarez

Connect with Juan Alvarez:

YouTube

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The Power of Podcast Tours™ with Scout Sobel EP 148

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Podcasts are changing the game for people who want to present themselves and share their stories. It’s proving to be a competitive alternative to traditional ways or social media for reaching your ideal audience, building quality connections, and growing your business. I’ve personally seen the benefits of podcasts after hosting almost 150 episodes, but our guest today is even more qualified to talk about the benefits.

Scout Sobel is a trailblazer in the media industry for utilizing Podcast Tours™ as a powerful form of PR. She founded Scout's Agency, an agency that runs high-profile Podcast Tours™ in February of 2019, and has since led it to grow 600% since year one, book over 2,000 podcast episodes, cultivate a database of over 5,000 podcasts, and run over 150 Podcast Tours™. She’s the author of the bestseller, The Emotional Entrepreneur: The Emotional Guidebook to Entrepreneurship, the host of The Emotional Entrepreneur Podcast, and the co-host of top-charting podcast, Okay Sis.

“You go on a podcast today, but the benefits can continue to bear fruit years and years later.” - Scout Sobel

Truly an expert in the field of podcasting, here are the three things Scout talks about in this episode:

Benefits of podcast tour
Differences between podcasts vs. traditional or social media
Podcasts as a human and authentic way of reaching your audience

“The medium of podcasting is deep, so naturally, the results are going to be deep.” - Scout Sobel

No one can argue with all of Scout’s success and achievements, but what makes her truly special is her authenticity and sincerity which comes through in our conversation. She doesn’t believe in competition, recognizing that there’s enough space for all voices to be heard and for everyone to succeed, and only wants to help and serve as many people as she can.

This is why she recently launched the Podcast Tour Academy, which provides private and group trainings for agencies, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to get them certified in running Podcast Tours™.

Connect with Scout Sobel:

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The Intimate Strategy EP 147

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0000

One huge category of online products today is online courses, and they vary in topics, industries, audiences, and even sizes. Some courses have hundreds to thousands of participants, and these are the ones with the goal of hitting the most numbers they possibly can.

“Courses get to be intimate spaces. They don’t have to be behemoths to become successful.” -Sandra Scaiano

But maybe that’s not for you and your course offering. Maybe you want to develop an intimate environment and only have a few dozen students at a time. In this episode, I’m talking to you about the intimate strategy and how these smaller courses can drive success.

Here are three benefits of smaller courses I discuss in this episode:

You really highlight quality.
It’s a more manageable workload.
There’s greater flexibility in delivery, teaching methods, and processes.

If you’re someone that’s better at catering to smaller groups and personal coaching, maybe developing intimate courses is for you. Or maybe you start out with the smaller setting and discover that having a large number of students is better for you and your business. That’s okay too.

“You can’t ‘think’ your business. It’s through doing that your path becomes clear.” -Sandra Scaiano

By running your business, you get to know your business and can decide what works best for you. By doing that you can have a clearer vision and get to plan better for the long game.

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Community & Inspiration with Artpreneur Author Miriam Schulman

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0000

As entrepreneurs, we need to plan and strategize in running our businesses, but we also need to be creative. Whether it’s figuring out ways to connect with your community, designing your next product launch, or curating your digital presence. We need to cultivate space where we can be creative so we can have the next great idea that will bring our business forward. Today we’re joined by a truly creative soul and we’ll talk about how she learned to be her true self, the importance of sharing your values, and of community.

I’m joined today by Miriam Schulman. Miriam is an artist, the author of Artpreneur, and an art business coach. She also hosts The Inspiration Place Podcast and developed The Artist Incubator program, where she helps artists get past their fear and doubt and create thriving businesses from their passion, no matter what kind of art they create.

“By being your authentic self, you’re giving your people permission to be their authentic self.” - Miriam Schulman

Miriam is brave in sharing who she really is; someone who is creative, artistic, bold, colorful, and loud. But in a society where artists, especially women, are told to be quiet and conscious of how much space they take up, she had to learn how to not water herself down and be at peace with who she really is.

Miriam shares so much more today, but here are the three main points you’ll gather so much value from:

The three ways to expand your audience and your network
Her experience in using snail mail vs. digital communication to connect with her community
The importance of sharing your values and how it helps build the right community around you

There are two circles we need to surround ourselves with. The first is a circle of people just like you: your peers and mentors who are in the same field as you, who you can learn something from, and who can encourage you and help you be better and grow. The second is your audience and your clients. These are the people you provide value for, the people who directly benefit from the value you bring to the world. Both circles are equally important and your relationships within them should be nurtured. And Miriam does exactly this. It’s apparent in the way she finds ways to connect with them and devotes time to build relationships, not for what they might offer her, but because she understands how important relationships are.

“It’s really important to become part of a group that encourages you to celebrate your wins because that is motivating, that is positive energy.” - Miriam Schulman

Connect with Miriam Schulman:

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The Remarkability Formula with Rich Brooks EP 145

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

As entrepreneurs, we know that we’re supposed to have a unique value proposition, but knowing this isn’t enough. For a lot of us, we get stuck on how to implement and communicate what sets us apart.

“There’s always something remarkable in your business, and it’s just up to you to identify it and name it.” -Rich Brooks

To help us move beyond knowing what sets us apart and to actually implement and effectively communicate it, Rich Brooks is joining us today. Rich is the founder and president of flyte new media, a digital agency that’s been in business for 25 years. He’s a nationally recognized speaker on entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and social media. He founded The Agents of Change, an annual conference, and weekly podcast that focuses on search, social & mobile marketing. Rich is the author of The Lead Machine: The Small Business Guide to Digital Marketing, a popular and well-received book that helps entrepreneurs and marketers reach more of their ideal customers online.

Today, Rich walks us through the Remarkability Formula, a four-part process designed to help you clarify what makes you remarkable to your ideal client. He talks about Find, Focus, Forge, and Frame, the four lenses of The Remarkability Formula, and dives deeper into each one, giving examples and ideas on how to apply them.

When you’ve identified what it is about your business that makes you remarkable, everything you do then becomes easier. Digital marketing is easier because the target audience and message are clearer. You immediately identify who your ideal client is, saving yourself so much time and effort. And you create some high barriers to competition, making you even more of an authority in your field.

“Even if you are like me and you have a million thoughts in your head, and so you are thinking about everything at once, you can’t implement everything at once. So that’s where the long game kind of comes in. How do I prioritize these things if I can’t tackle everything at once.” -Rich Brooks

Rich also reminds us that this is a process. Your business changes and evolves. You refine and adjust systems. And this takes time. So, give yourself the necessary time to work on your business and implement the changes you want to make.

Connect with Rich Brooks:

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Becoming Intentionally Selfish with Naketa Ren Thigpen EP 144

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

I love and have embraced the term “intentionally selfish” since I first heard it. To be intentionally selfish is to be unapologetic for raising yourself up, to give yourself what you need to heal, and to let go of all the shame from the experiences you went through. This episode is all about being “intentionally selfish.” It’s a gift to yourself, an encouragement to move you further in your healing journey, and a discovery of your goals.

My guest, Naketa Ren Thigpen, is breaking down the importance of being intentionally selfish. She’s a Balance and Relationship advisor, combining the tenants of licensed clinical social work, psychotherapy, trauma work, metaphysics, and coaching. She’s the CEO of personal development company, ThigPro Balance, a podcast host, and the author of Selfish: Permission to Pause, Live, Love and Laugh Your Way to Joy.

Topics discussed in this episode:

We need to make the decision for ourselves that we’ve had enough and need to change and heal.
We can either “stay in the box” or “break the box”. We need to choose what we would do.
Do not minimize the pain and experiences you went through just because it’s not worse than what other people have gone through.

“The long game is knowing how to play it, but also finding out your unique shortcuts and ways so you can actually win the game you’re trying to play.” - Naketa Ren Thigpen

She also breaks down G.I.F.T. which stands for gratitude, imagine, forgiveness, and take action. She describes this process of healing as a gift we give to ourselves and guides us through each letter and how we can apply them.

If you want to work with Naketa, consider the Intentionally Selfish Suite, a Personal Development Incubator deliberately designed to equip and certify women entrepreneurs as they evolve, arrive, and expand the version of themselves that's unchained, free, unconquerable, and spacious enough to create work/life that serves their highest good.

This episode is jam-packed with Naketa’s wealth of knowledge, words of wisdom, life lessons, and relatable experiences. Listen to the full episode to hear everything she shares.

Connect with Naketa Ren Thigpen:

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The Power of Specializing and Niching Your Business with Natalie Eckdahl EP 143

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

As entrepreneurs, we're like special unicorns that usually have a lot of experience and can do multiple things. But having a unicorn business can be exhausting for us and confusing for potential clients. Maybe you feel overwhelmed by the multiple offers and products or services that you offer. Or you might struggle to market all of them at the same time. You almost definitely could be facing challenges keeping track of the latest developments in your wide market. It may be time to narrow your specialization and niche down.

I’m excited to dive deeper into this conversation with our guest Natalie Eckdahl. Natalie launched the Biz Chix podcast back in 2014, and she has been serving women entrepreneurs ever since. Her company, Biz Chix, Inc, helps service entrepreneurs build enduring, profitable, and sustainable businesses. She’s the creator of the $ix Figures Lab, a year long group coaching program for women service-based business owners. By providing strategy, coaching, accountability, and community, Natalie helps these women grow and scale a profitable business.

But what exactly is specializing and having a niche? Well, in Natalie’s words, “We can specialize by the work we do, the type of work we do, we niche by who we do it for.”

“But if you're trying to build a business that will scale, the first place you need to start is with positioning, and that involves some experimenting to figure out where you're going to put yourself in the marketplace.” - Natalie Eckdahl

Why should we specialize and niche? What are the benefits? Here are three things Natalie talks about more in this episode:

It informs all your business decisions from investments, hiring, and goal setting
You become more of an expert and are immediately more referable
You get to have an “automatic yes business”

But what are the challenges of specializing and niching? There must be a mindset shift. It takes time (even up to a year) to have only your new niche or specialty clients. Letting go of former investments and sunk costs. Repelling potential clients and projects that are no longer your specialty. Natalie tells us how to deal with these challenges and make the best of this transition period.

“I want to help people build a business that will be enduring. So it needs to be enjoyable, profitable, and sustainable. If it's not all three, they're not going to stick with it.” - Natalie Eckdahl

This is an easier process when you’re being guided through it, and when you have a community of people around you who are also doing the exact same thing, which is exactly what her coaching program, $ix Figures Lab, offers. We learn what sets it apart from others in the market, from a solid community of entrepreneurs, business resources, and trainings you can access at any time, guided goal setting and check-ins, and easy access to Natalie herself.

Listen in to hear all Natalie has to say about specializing and niching down and to learn how you can apply it to your own business.

Connect with Natalie Eckdahl:

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How the Creative Process Works EP 142

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The Long Game, I’m taking you on a creative journey, exploring the process of illumination, evaluation and verification of unique ideas and experiences to discover the universal concepts of creativity.

We often think the creative process is individual and varies from person to person, but I’ve learned that there are some universal truths about the process of creativity.

This episode breaks down the five stages of the creative process, which include preparation, incubation, illumination, evaluation, and verification. I’ve found how all stages of the creative process are universal, but also unique to everyone.

We can’t discount the importance of the gut, the subconscious mind, and taking breaks. By understanding the creative process, we can better understand our own journey and find joy in being creative.

"Each day is a small lifetime. Live a good life today." -James Clear

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

The five-stage Creative Process that has been outlined since 1926
The secrets to unlocking your subconscious mind to find creative solutions
How you can use the Creative Process to develop your own business assets and ideas

I’ve always been a creative in one form or another. I’m familiar with the emotions in the creative process. I love that I've now landed in a place where my business feeds into my creativity. We know that we apply our creative process in lots of the things we’re doing every day. Being creative fills me with joy and hope that you get some insight about your own creative process.

That weird thing that you do, those emotions that you have, that is all part of your own visionary ecosystem, right? And it's totally unique to you and universal at the same time.

I'd love to hear about your process. Let me know what works for you. You can DM me on social or respond to one of my weekly emails.

Connect with Me:

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Client Feedback... Beyond Testimonials EP 141

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0000

As entrepreneurs, we sometimes get so involved inside our own products, systems, and workflows that we can’t see things from a client or user-experience perspective. This is why it’s so valuable to have someone else tell you about what works, what works well, and what has room for improvement. This is where feedback comes in. After all, who could be better to talk about your products and services than your clients?

“Client feedback is a valuable tool that can inform what we do in our businesses. It can improve our offerings and strengthen our relationships with our customers.” -Sandra Scaiano

All business owners know that it’s easier to retain an existing client than to bring in a new one. With an existing client, you’ve already figured out their business structure and process, their products, services, and brand. You’re already familiar with how their mind works and have an idea of how to best interact with them.

Feedback sessions help us retain these existing clients and further improve the existing relationship. That’s why in this episode, we’re talking about all things feedback.

So why should you get feedback? Here are some of the benefits I share in this episode:

To hear what’s working and what needs improving
To help inform your future products and services
Feedback sessions build stronger relationships with your clients

“Whether you know what’s next with your client, or you’re doing a feedback session to mark a definitive end, spending time talking paves the way for forward motion. And in many cases, it leads to increased customer retention.” -Sandra Scaiano

Feedback is an important tool for business owners. So listen to this episode to learn more about Feedback vs Testimonials, how to get feedback, and who to get it from.You’ll be amazed by how much it will benefit your business.

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How to Build Community in Your Business EP 140

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0000

We all know how important communities are for our businesses. We build them. We are a part of them. They’re there for conversations, support, exploration of ideas, and even sales. Our community can help our business grow, and yes, sometimes even survive.

So how exactly do we build and foster our communities? Is social media the only way? What can we build that allows for connection and conversation? I’ve been thinking about this for over a year now, and this episode is the kickoff to a series where we dive deep into different ideas about community.

“I’ve now shifted my search to things that support how I’m already operating. Yes, I’ve started to listen to my own advice: ‘Build from what you have and what is unique to your business.’” -Sandra Scaiano

These are the ideas about community building that we explore today:

What do you already have set up that you can use now?
Comparing Social Media Platforms as community builders
What other platforms and methods are available as community builders?

“The concept of community is really what you think of it and what you make of it for yourself. How you choose to go about building community and developing it has to feel right for you.” - Sandra Scaiano

The basis of any community is a shared something. So find that something you have to share and offer it to the world. There is no wrong method for finding and attracting your people. The most important thing in building your community is to start, and soon you’ll find what works and your people will come to you.

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Breaking Out of Limiting Beliefs with Erica Rooney EP 139

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Let me ask you, what is that one thing that is holding you back? Is it a toxic characteristic? A limiting belief? Maybe it’s your fear of those voices in your head telling you that “You can’t do this.” Or maybe it’s an unhealthy relationship you need to move on from.

Our guest, Erica Rooney, is a keynote speaker, coach, and host of the From Now to Next podcast. She’s on a mission to help women get seen, get heard, and get further.

“Why do we care that if out of a thousand people, 2 people don’t like what you’re doing? Why do we focus on those two people, instead of focusing on the other 998? Like, let’s look at the math, people!” – Erica Rooney

In this episode, Erica talks about what she calls “sticky floors.” These are, limiting beliefs, toxic habits and relationships, fears, and doubts that hold us back and keep us from “busting through the glass ceiling.” Here are some things she shares about sticky floors:

These sticky floors have been taught to us since we were children
The first step is to recognize and identify our sticky floors
We will always have sticky floors. What will make a difference is how fast we’ll be in recognizing and dealing with them
Have your own personal board of directors that will correct you, motivate you, and help you deal with your sticky floors

“It may not be great. It may not be perfect. But we can still do it, and that’s the biggest thing.” - Erica Rooney

What’s your sticky floor? What’s holding you back from reaching that next milestone and achieving that next goal? How can you deal with them? All of these questions and more are discussed in this episode.

Connect with Erica Rooney

Website: www.fromnowtonext.org/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/from_now_to_next/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/FromNowToNext

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ericarooney/

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/eraadvisors/

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3 Things to Focus on for 2023 EP 138

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The New Year is here and with it comes a wave of energy and universal momentum where everybody is gearing up for the year ahead. Now is the time that everyone is reflecting, planning, and making goals and visions.

“It’s about vision. Having a vision for where you want to go and an idea of what you’re going to do this year to get there.” -Sandra Scaiano

In preparing for 2023, I am sharing with you three things you can focus on to help you build out your goals for 2023:

Give yourself the time to make the changes you need
Have a framework for your process
Build relationships that support your vision

If you take these concepts and build them into your 2023 vision and goal setting, I know that things will be easier for you.

There are also a few things happening in this podcast. We have guests lined up, conversations planned, and a few series in the works. I hope you’re as excited as I am and let’s take 2023 on together!

“There are as many ways to be successful in business as there are entrepreneurs.” -Sandra Scaiano

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Lensa App, Should You Use It? EP 137

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

The Lensa images have been flooding social media these past few weeks. How could it not with this AI technology producing images that are stylized, ethereal, dreamy, and intoxicating, making everyone look like fairies, anime or popular paintings? But with the spike of Lensa’s popularity comes its own share of controversies.

“This example of Lensa is so tangible. It’s AI that we all have access to and we’re all using in some way. So we are part of the conversation in ways that we didn’t realize or in ways that we were not a part of before.”

With the development of any AI technology, comes ethical, equitable and security issues. In this episode we discuss three points people have been talking about when it comes to the Lensa App:

Theft from artists: AI generated images created from millions of existing works of artists who have not given permission for their works to be used
People being over-sexualized and white-washed in these images
Privacy concerns and company terms

This episode is a follow-up and pop culture example on the two-part series on AI. We further delve into how AI affects our daily lives in multiple areas, what art is, the similarities of AI and art appropriation, who are the drivers behind AI, and what goes behind the decision-making on whether or not you should use AI.

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5 Steps to Creating a Successful Business-Building Book with Lanette Pottle EP 136

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Over 80% of Americans want to write a book and the percentage of them that actually do is actually quite sad. For you entrepreneurs out there, listen up! Writing a book is a great way to build your business, and today’s guest is running down exactly why you’ll want to get started on your book today.

“It's about an investment in the long game, and how you can continue to attract and nurture and identify new clients…” -Lanette Pottle

In this episode, I’m so excited to have the creator of She Gets Published join me. She teaches women like you how to turn your wisdom into authority building impact creating books within months. Lanette Pottle is a book coach and publishing mentor that’s revealing the five steps you need to know to create a successful business-building book.

“When you become a published author, it is an automatic, just innate authority builder, [...] your level of expertise changes the minute you become a published author.” -Lanette Pottle

Lanette points out how writing a book becomes an instant credibility boost, and it also helps propel and promote your business when done right. Choosing the right topic matters, knowing what problem you’re helping your audience solve is important, and knowing how to market your book is key to success.

Here is a free resource to choose your best book idea the easy way from Lanette. Becoming a published author is a great accomplishment, but being an entrepreneur with a published book is great marketing.

Connect with Lanette Pottle

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Bandwidth & Brilliance with Diann Wingert EP 135

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Have you caught yourself making plans, agreeing to things, and writing out to do lists in your planner as if time was a figment of your imagination? Are you guilty of packing your days before they ever begin only to beat yourself up for not meeting the most unrealistic expectations later?

Don’t be shy, raise your hand… my hand is up too!

In this episode, the keyword is bandwidth. My guest today, Diann Wingert, is a business strategist and coach that helps the super smart, savvy, expert women that started a business and try to operate on a theoretical bandwidth that doesn’t exist. She is the founder of Boss Up Breakthrough Coaching and saving women from themselves before burnout and overwhelm attack is what she does extremely well.

“We have to get really clear on our actual bandwidth, not our theoretical, not our ideal, but our actual bandwidth and our boundaries so that we can preserve our brilliance and prevent burnout.” -Diann Wingert

If you’ve been teetering on the edge of overwhelm and exhausted between your own creative business ideas and the 20 other ideas and strategies you heard between your mastermind groups and podcasts this week alone, hang on, grab a cup of tea, and let’s take notes.

Ideas to expand your bandwidth and brilliance

Unrealistic expectations lead to burnout
Audit subscriptions and groups taking your time and energy
Your default Yes is just an interesting opportunity to think about
Bandwidth without boundaries equals burnout. Restrict access to your calendar
90 day sprints are a great segway into planning your year without overwhelm

Learn to respect your bandwidth and create a business you love and a life you love by design. The key is having realistic expectations, being thoughtful and intentional about what you want your business to be.

“You can create the business that is uniquely suited to your brilliance, your bandwidth, your lifestyle, your stage of life, what brings you joy, and what makes you feel like a fricking rockstar…” -Diann Wingert

Connect with Gladys DiTroia

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The Long Game Is... Anchor Pages with Krysty Krywko Bonus Replay EP 134

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is the person who introduced me to the concept of morning pages. Julia Cameron, author of The Artists Way, explains them this way:

This is an exercise that helps you have more consciousness during your day. It’s a process to help open your creativity. It’s all about uncovering, getting unstuck.

Today’s guest, Krysty Krywko, has her own process called anchor pages. She uses art and creativity to help people heal.

First up we talk about how Krysty chose to rebrand herself and her business. She shared why she knew she needed to make the change AND admitted why it felt so hard to release the old name/brand.

“I can change my mind anytime I want to change my mind”. – Krysty

Krysty shares her anchor pages process and how she uses this in her own work. It’s working through a series of prompts.

Name it and claim the emotions you are feeling right now.
How do you want to feel?
What actions do you need to take?

She reminds us that the actions are usually small steps that allow us to make a change.

Krysty reminds us that it’s perfectly fine to start where you are, with what you have. Use the kids crayons and markers, cut photos out of magazines. Her advice: don’t censure. Just start.

The power lies in the process.

Final words: Start where you are. Don’t worry about showing anyone else and remember that there are no rules. You can’t do it wrong!

Connect with Krysty

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Case Study: How She Reached 7-Figures With Her Course & Membership EP 133

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Reaching 7-figures is the dream of many entrepreneurs and yet not many ever hit that goal. I want to open the door for you to see exactly how I helped one of my clients pivot from a brick and mortar idea to an online fully digital course that hit 7 figures in 3 years.

The Real Deal with Gladys DiTroia is an online weight loss program that has changed the lives of thousands of women already. When I first started working with Gladys, she was in the same position many of you are in right now. Does working 7 days a week, maxed out at the number of clients you can help, struggling to get away from the one to one model of a coaching business, and burning out sound familiar?

“Create repeatable processes that allow room for comfort and a greater capacity to add new ideas.” -Gladys DiTroia

In this episode you’ll get a better picture of what it means to scale and the amount of time and effort it requires to grow a 7-figure digital business.

Noteworthy ideas you don’t want to miss

Having systems in place is a must for you to scale your business to 7-figures
Building a community for your brand and the courses you offer is a win-win
Bringing your true self into your business gives you a unique edge no one else has
Listening to your community will help you develop next steps in your business

As I’ve had multiple launches in progress simultaneously for different clients, there are tools that I’ve learned to use that allow me to stay on top of the launch process without blowing the timeline. With the number of moving parts going on for a launch, you have to have systems in place to be successful and maintain your sanity.

“You cannot handle scale without systems, and without understanding what your process is and what your goal is as well.” -Sandy Scaiano

Gladys helps women develop a lifestyle that allows them to lose weight and keep the weight off, and she does it without fad diets. In her business, Gladys shares that “the fastest way to lose weight is slowly.” In generating 7-figures in sales the same rules apply. Systems are key to scaling any business and in this conversation, you can hear how when developing Gladys’ business each layer of success built on the previous and it was all by way of the systems we created and put in place. Great systems allow you to train others easily and scale to 7 figures and beyond.

Connect with Gladys DiTroia

Soul Sisters Paranormal Website

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Why You Should be Creating Branded Content Now! EP 132

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

The stress that comes along with social media includes creating videos, putting yourself out there consistently and getting over the negative voices screaming that this is horrible. Not many of us are enthusiastic about creating, posting and scheduling content. It’s all super frustrating, but what if I told you social media isn’t the only way to get brand visibility.

In this episode we’re talking about all the reasons why you should be making branded content now.

“Remember that social media is made to serve the social media companies, not us.” -Sandra Scaiano

Social media platforms can eat into your time and resources very easily. Though they are useful, they should not be the only things you rely on to build your brand and your business.

Key ideas in this episode

Several types of long form branded content you can start creating
Creating custom content, SEO and website optimization is key
How pillar content makes everything so much easier

“You can completely be yourself in the content that you house on your website.”-Sandra Scaiano

Creating branded content that lives on your website has so many benefits. I explain 3 pillars of content you want to create so that you can repurpose and get multiple uses. Being able to access and own all of your content and your audience is a big deal when you’re growing and scaling your business.

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Launch Organization and Rhythm EP 131

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0000

The stress of running a successful launch for your brand can be life changing to the growth of your business. You shouldn’t have to build a system for your launch from scratch every time. I want to take you through the high-level view of what it looks like to create a rhythm in promoting and launching your business that’s successful and repeatable.

The details required for a launch, the timelines and moving parts can be really overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to feel out of control once you know the tweaks and tricks I’m sharing with you today.

Create repeatable processes that allow room for comfort and greater capacity to add new ideas.

In this episode we’re looking at how to create a rhythm in promoting and launching so it’s a success and easier every time.

Key ideas in this episode

Two phases of the launch process you must tackle separately
Tools that can make or break your launch planning and executing
Post launch work to setup for your next launch

As I’ve had multiple launches in progress simultaneously for different clients, there are tools that I’ve learn to use that allow me to stay on top of the launch process without blowing the timeline. With the number of moving parts going on for a launch, you have to have systems in place to be successful and maintain your sanity.

You can repeat what you track because you can remember it, or you can refer to it. And this is what gets you into a rhythm.

When you’re launching something like a course, you have to plan months out to know all the points along the way pre-launch phase, what promotions are running, and everything leading up to the opening and start of the course. This episode will give you the ah-ha moment you need to get the full picture of your next launch.

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The Long Game is... Divine Timing EP 130

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

It’s so hard to not look at everyone who seems to be further along you. They’re celebrating the wins you wish you had and you’re living in slow motion and frustrated with your business not growing as fast as you want. You started a year ago, 5 years ago, and it’s hard to not feel the pressure of self-inflicted expectations that you should be further along.

Nothing kills the joy of a journey more than thinking you should be at the final destination already. Patience is a virtue and yes, comparison is the thief of joy.

“The right things will happen in the right time for you” -Sandra Scaiano

This episode is dedicated to the gift of divine timing, acceptance, being in the present moment of life and of your business in preparation for the long game.

Key ideas in this episode

Your next level cannot be forced
Radical acceptance of the phase of life you are in
Break up with expectations of hustle culture

You have to break up with the expectations and images of hustle culture and be okay with prioritizing your life, relationships, and connections. It doesn’t mean you’re not focused on growing your business and it certainly doesn’t mean that you’re not progressing. It does mean that your journey happens in its own timing.

“It’s not about how hard you work, it’s about perspective. It’s about understanding the place you are in in life and the resources you have at this time.”-Sandra Scaiano

Check out the 5 concepts I share to accept diving timing that have helped me in my own journey of building my business for the last 13 years while living the mom life and taking steps in the time I have. For the long game, I have found that you have to enjoy the journey and not just wish for the final destination of success. Live in the now and let go.

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Soul Sisters Paranormal with Dr. Kristy Sumner EP 129

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Dr. Kristy Sumner has successfully combined her passion for historical stories and paranormal into two businesses: Soul Sisters Paranormal, and The Historic Scott County Jail Museum.

“If you look at us, just from the outside, it looks like we have a very robust company, but it’s just the two of us.” -Dr. Kristy Sumner

Key areas we’re highlighting in this episode

Kristy’s first overnight stay in a haunted penitentiary, developing passion and excitement
Learning the technical skills it takes to produce the content they want to share
How a collaboration turned into a reopening of a historical location with paranormal research

“We wanted to start out with a bang and really show people that we are legitimate in what we're doing.” -Dr. Kristy Sumner

Mentioned in this episode:

Lizzie Borden Story

Connect with Dr. Kristy Sumner

Historic Scott County Jail Website

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The Long Game Is…Your Circle EP 128

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Trying to achieve success in your business alone, is a losing strategy. Behind every successful person and every ultra-successful business are teams of people and relationships that make success achievable. Who you surround yourself with is critical to your success and in today’s episode I want to help you understand why your circle matters for the long game.

After coming back from a recent trip to a storytelling symposium, I feel compelled to share with you the value I’ve received from being part of so many incredible circles since starting my own business. Some of the circles I’ve belonged to served for a short period of time, others are ongoing, and we continue to meet monthly.

“Those in your circle can reflect back to you who you really are.” -Sandra Scaiano

As human beings, and especially as women, we’ve been gathering in circles since our ancestral times. There is a powerful field of energy, strength and sisterhood felt in a circle. Some will call it a community, a tribe, or a network, but I choose to call it my circle.

Key ideas in this episode

There is tremendous value in being part of a circle
My takeaways on resistance and being all in from the storytelling symposium
3 ways you can build your circle

Professionally speaking, when you’re building your business, there is a special value placed on being part of a group of women that will hold you accountable, allow you to be vulnerable, and where you share information, resources, and expertise to support each other’s growth. Being supported and giving support is what allows everyone to succeed.

“Build a circle with people who are committed to their journey and are investing in themselves.” -Sandra Scaiano

Be brave and allow yourself to show up to a circle of support. It can be scary in the beginning, but I promise you it’s so worth it, and it’s the fastest and most effective way to build your business and yourself.

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Relationships Beat Algorithms with George Bryant EP 127

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

You’ve seen the customer journey maps, diaphragm, 9 steps, funnels, colors swirls and more. Learning about the customer journey can make your head swirl in confusion on how to create one for your business, make sure you hit all the stages and have all of the elements needed. What would it look like for the customer and for yourself if you just simplified it all?

Today’s guest is George Bryant, an amazing podcast host, New York Times bestselling author, and digital marketing consultant. The way he breaks down the customer journey is going to make your day 10 times better. George removes all the fluff, all of the complicated touch points and expectations and simplifies exactly what you should prioritize and focus on for your customer’s journey.

“The path of least resistance is the best path to build the customer journey” -George Bryant

This is one interview you’re going to need pen and paper or an open note tab ready to capture some thoughts and insights that may revolutionize the entire way you think about your customer journey. George focused on finding the right pockets to insert relationships and prioritizing that, thus his tag line “relationships beat algorithms.”

Key points for your customer relationships to beat algorithms:

Grabbing customer attention without action will make people move away from you
The customer journey is better with simplicity, don’t overwhelm your customer
The after state of the customer journey is more important than features and benefits

George has an incredibly inspiring personal story that takes him from being homeless at one point to building 7-figure businesses and being the highly sought-after marketing guy. In this episode George breaks down how he defines the customer journey and why focusing your attention on making the container of experience you give the customer in service of getting them closer to their desired outcome is the key. You have to keep it simple and digestible for your customer.

“Your offer is not the solution. Your offer is just the path that somebody is taking to achieve an aftertaste.” -George Bryant

Connect with George Bryant:

Website: https://mindofgeorge.com/

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The Long Game is... Your Voice As A Lead Magnet with Susan Young EP 126

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0000

What is your story? If you’re a business owner that doesn’t know your story, we’re going to expose all the ways you’re missing warm leads to grow your business and opportunities for people to connect and feel more invested with you.

My guest today, Susan Young, is a former on-air news anchor that helps entrepreneurs learn how to share their story, get more clients, more visibility and make more impact. This episode is about to open your mind to all new business opportunities that begin with you being your own lead magnet.

A golden story nugget from Susan is that the key to connecting the dots is, “The right words in the right order at the right time for the right people.”

As an award-winning speaker and coach, Susan has built a 6-figure business from speaking and helping others boldly tell their story. One of her strongest reminders for those of us brave enough to consider sharing our stories, is that self-belief is a must. When you get on stage to share your story, or create a post for your Instagram account, you have to believe in yourself and in your own story in order for anyone else to believe it also.

Key points Susan shares to use your voice as the lead magnet:

What should you say to capture people’s attention
There is a big difference between your bio and an introduction
How to identify and incorporate what she refers to as defining moments
Outlets to consider for sharing your story and getting speaking engagements
How to craft your story to serve as a lead magnet

Susan is very encouraging about knowing your story and trusting and believing in yourself. When you come into new spaces to speak, remember your story to make people curious. Learning how to pitch yourself takes time and practice. Don’t allow your inner critic to hold you back with the imposter story.

“We’ve got to get the imposter syndrome story silenced.” -Susan Young

Connect with Sue Young:

Website: https://www.sueyoungmedia.com/

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Artificial Intelligence and Your Business Part 2 EP 125

Sat, 24 Sep 2022 19:14:00 -0000

In part 1 of this 2 part series, we talked about how artificial intelligence is showing up in our day to day lives with or without us being aware. Because so many big brands are invested in the use of A.I. in their business and systems, we are by proxy customers of A.I., and that can be unnerving if you don’t fully understand all the ramifications of this technology.

This time around, we’re diving deep into the dark side of A.I. One of the main issues that comes up again and again in A.I. are concerns about what’s ethical and what’s not. These conversations reach a wide range of industries. Some of the areas we’re uncovering in this episode are:

● Machine learning chatbots and misinformation

● Lack of diversity in the A.I. community and tech

● Copywriting and content apps using A.I.

● A.I. generated art and imagery

● Privacy concerns, security risks, and deep fakes

There is no blanket right or wrong answer to the ethical nature of artificial intelligence in business and in the evolving tech heavy world we live in. Being well informed and thoughtful of these matters and how they fit in with your core values is key to playing The Long Game.

“I’m not worried about machines taking over the world. I’m worried about groupthink, insularity and arrogance in the A.I. community…” Dr. Timnit Gebru (source)

You don’t have to become an expert in A.I., machine learning, and tech, but you do want an understanding of what’s driving the technology options for your business, and what it means for your growth, your customers, and how you interact with one another. A.I. technology is showing up everywhere, from entertainment and healthcare to transportation and shopping (online and in store).

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Artificial Intelligence and Your Business Part 1 EP 124

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0000

The mention of artificial intelligence either gets you really excited or makes you cringe and think of robots taking over the world and enslaving all the humans. Things we don’t yet fully understand feel scary and threatening on a surface level.

In this episode, I want to walk you through all the areas where we’ve already been introduced to artificial intelligence or A.I. and how much we have already adopted it into our daily lives without realizing it.

We’re going to explore A.I. over the next two episodes, the good side and the darker side that makes us a little nervous. We have to understand the implications of A.I. as consumers, small business owners and entrepreneurs playing the long game.

What is A.I.?
What well-known brands are using it?
How can you use A.I. in your business?

A.I. is showing up in so many parts of our lives, from how we talk to Alexa or Siri, how we shop on Amazon, to how we interact with people on social media. Big companies like Google, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, and even Uber are not just using artificial intelligence, but they’re investing millions of dollars into making it more efficient to improve productivity and sales.

“It’s such a double-edged sword, we get access and connection but we give up privacy and we give up control of our content reach.”

It’s a reality we have to face whether we want to or not. Learning all the ways you can leverage these technological advances in your business is worth paying attention to. Understanding how the social platforms a majority of businesses are relying on for sales and connection to their audience and customers is going to be critical for the long game. In part 2, we’re going to explore the darker side of A.I. so we can approach this technology with eyes wide open.

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The Long Game Is 1, 2, 3

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Find out how you can use the threes to help your clients. What does storytelling, photography and religion have in common? This will help you see it so...

Breaking down big projects is one the ways I help my clients. Today I share how I do this for all kinds of things. It helps me take action and make progress without feeling overwhelmed. Just give me the 1 2 3. The power of threes. You don’t have to believe me, there’s science behind it! All this plus my new "what I'm loving now."

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3 Ways To Build Your Business That Never Go Out of Style EP 122

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0000

In a digital age where trends, data, and feedback are instantaneous, you have to be mindful about knowing the fundamentals and timeless proven strategies that build businesses. Having a melting pot of strong business foundations with modern tools you can use to connect is how we play the long game.

Today’s episode is about looking at three ways entrepreneurs can build their business that never go out of style, regardless of technology or trends. Some strategies remain timeless and it’s important you know what they are so you can build a strong foundation for your business.

“As much as we have to stay current and know what the trends are, it's also important to know the fundamentals.”

You know this podcast is about playing The Long Game and we’re diving into why these strategies are timeless and effective:

Bring your voice forward and do what feels right
Focus on building relationships
Stick to your offers

Growing your business can get chaotic if you’re constantly changing to the latest trends. It’s more rewarding for you to focus on the long-standing business ideas that have worked before and continue to work.

“Focus on these long-standing business ideas, mix in the you and apply them for your today.”

Making these ideas and strategies your own is really the key to success. You have to interject enough of yourself into the equation and have the perseverance to stick with it while being bold enough to take on new trends that feel right and align with you.

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Building a Body of Work with Brandy Agerbeck EP 121

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Taking what you’ve learned and built your success around is one of the best ways to further your business. We all have skills and expertise that we’ve developed in doing the “thing” that we do, whether you are a coach or a bakery owner.

Brand Agerbeck is a graphic facilitator and a visual thinking pioneer. She stumbled into becoming a graphic facilitator and has been able to turn her unique skills into a successful business. She is a published author, Ted Talk presenter, and is finding joy and fulfillment in teaching others how to harness the power of visual thinking.

In this episode we’re discussing how Brandy was able to build a successful life and business from following the cues and listening to her intuition.

Building a business model from passion and intuition
Creating a body of work that plants seeds for your business to grow
Successfully building a body of work that is interconnected and builds on itself

Brandy’s method of visual thinking and getting everything out on paper allowed her to visualize and see the 24 techniques that went into her book, that later evolved into 9 modules and one day workshops. The key is allowing yourself the space to be messy and do what works for you without being contained to a shape and model that isn’t for you.

“Give yourself the time and space to be messy, and push stuff around and let the shape of your work emerge.”

-Brandy Agerbeck

After listening to all the wisdom and experience in this episode with Brandy, take a look at where you are. What are your skill sets and processes that led to your path of success and enables you to do what you do? Look at your methods and start visually thinking where you were stuck and how you got unstuck, the steps you went through and how you can meet the needs of others and plant seeds that grow a bigger and more fulfilling business.

“It's almost like figuring out how to repackage your knowledge in multiple ways so that it can connect with people in different realms, so you can broaden your audience” -Sandra Scaiano

Connect with Brandy Agerbeck:

Website: https://www.loosetooth.com/

Ted Talk: https://youtu.be/6bCHq1OvGR4

Check out Brandy’s book, Idea Shapers: https://www.amazon.com/Idea-Shapers-power-putting-thinking/dp/1494919338

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Visual Thinking with Brandy Agerbeck EP: 120

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0000

What is your thinking style? Are you creative? Critical? Abstract? Maybe you’ve never given it much thought, but the way you process information, solve problems and approach conflict and obstacles to grow your business and be your more successful self has a lot to do with how you think.

Brand Agerbeck is a graphic facilitator and a visual thinking pioneer. She stumbled into becoming a graphic facilitator and has been able to turn her skills into a successful business. She is a published author, Ted Talk presenter, and is finding joy and fulfillment in teaching others how to harness the power of visual thinking.

“The number one reason I use visual thinking is it reduces my overwhelm.” -Brandy Agerbeck

You know this podcast is all about playing The Long Game and we’re drawing on the creativity and model of success from Brandy to help you take your business to the next level with these key points:

Understanding what it means to be a visual thinker
How does visual thinking help improve your business
What visual thinking for business owners can achieve
Brandy’s monthly Q&A workshop, Drawing As A Verb

Being able to get your ideas out of your head and onto paper, index cards, stick notes or whatever is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself. It not only reduces overwhelm and anxiety, but this skill helps you see and create new insights.

“Messy drawings can create clarity.” -Brandy Agerbeck

If you’re a planner, pen, journal kind of person, this is definitely going to be something you’ll want to try. If you’re not that kind of person, but you’re an entrepreneur that relies on creative, lateral and intuitive thinking to scale your business, you’ll also want to explore visual thinking.

Connect with Brandy Agerbeck:

Website: https://www.loosetooth.com/

Ted Talk: https://youtu.be/6bCHq1OvGR4

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The Long Game Is. . . Energetic Thinking Bonus Replay EP 119

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0000

If you’re wondering what Energetic Thinking means, I share more in today’s episode: it’s when your thinking flows and you gain insights based on random experiences or something you’ve seen or heard in real life. One place I like to spark inspiration is in the news and seeing what large corporations do in terms of marketing, advertising and content creation. You can glean some amazing insights that you can apply on a smaller scale to your own business. It’s super cool!

While the goal isn’t for small businesses to become huge corporations (though some of you will want to scale), the lessons you learn can be helpful at any size.

I discuss:

The importance of learning to think like a large corporation
Tapping into how the culture of a larger company can help you determine who you are as a company
The Magic of Tiny Business by Sharon Rowe, and her definition of how a tiny business is defined

Here are four examples of the things I’ve found interesting and useful in my own Energetic Thinking and how they can be applied to your own business:

How NBC repurposed Today into a podcast, and the implications of this move
What this means for your own business and how to repurpose your content
My process in repurposing the content of this podcast
Clubhouse’s new partnerships with the NFL and the NHL: the benefits for audience and fans
How the partnership built on the strengths of Clubhouse (and what those strengths are)
How Clubhouse moved to creatively leverage their best asset, and how you can, too (hint: think about who supports your industry)
Why I just love what Barilla Pasta did with their innovative approach to helping you cook perfect pasta (I bet you won’t guess what it is!)
The importance of adding fun to your brand, or sharing lifestyle posts, and how it enhances the brand experience for your audience
The Container Store’s email that inspired me, and how you can use the same idea on a smaller level (I share two key points for you to make it work)
Something similar I did with one of my own clients

It’s so important to keep an eye out for creative approaches that you see in the world, then thinking energetically around how you can use something similar for your brand. There are so many good ideas out there!

Links

The Magic of Tiny Business by Sharon Rowe

Website: https://sandrasky.com/podcast/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandrascai/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sandrascai/

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Podcasts I'm Listening To Now EP 118

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0000

I’m not just a podcast creator, I’m a long-time listener as well.

My number one category is business, but you can’t listen to business all the time. No matter what I’m hearing though, I can’t turn off my brain when it comes to the production values.

First up, cooking and food shows. I have found that food shows are relaxing and often help me relax and fall asleep!

Borderline Salty is a weekly podcast hosted by Carla Lalli Music and Rick Martinez. These chefs and test kitchen experts have great chemistry together and they talk about food, take calls and answer questions from listeners. It’s a fun listen.

Dinner for One is the audio exploration of what happens when the Paris fairytale ends and real life begins. This is the genius of Sutanya, the creator and host. She’s a Jamaican-born, Bronx-raised, American living in Paris’ cooking dinner and sharing her story.

Next up, true crime. Of course I listened to Serial which is one of the biggest shows in the genre. I’m looking forward to their next season.

What’s caught my attention right now is Hollywood Con Queen. I don’t want to give too much away but it’s the story of one of the weirdest and wildest scams in Hollywood history.

I’m also into Queen of the Con Irish Heiress. What if you woke up to discover that your best friend isn’t who they say they are? This is fascinating to me. Cons are work; a long game all their own and I’m loving how this story is being shared.

Another favorite is The Terri Cole show. This is for anyone who wants to learn more about practical psychology, achieving personal freedom, self-improvement, meditation, mindfulness practices, harnessing the power of intention, and real-life strategies for personal transformation.

She has a grounded style and uses story to help understand the lesson in the message. Her advice is practical and I’m really looking forward to having her on this show!

If she’s new to you, I suggest listening to episode 337 on Boundaries first. It’s so good.

There’s so much to dive in when it comes to podcasts. This is what I’ve been listening to now. I’m always open for new shows so please share your favorites with me.

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Personal Story: People Heal EP 117

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0000

One of my favorite quotes is:

“You don’t have to be who you were yesterday.”

This is really resonating with me. These past weeks of summer have helped me realize who I’ve become. I know realize it was a healing that happened. My personal story around that is the topic for this show.

Back in my soccer playing days, I loved the orange slices that teammates moms brought for us to eat at half time. I swear they were the most delicious oranges. My mom was never the one who brough the oranges though.

I had to say no when I was invited to be on a traveling team. I knew my parents wouldn’t be able to take me to all the practices and tournaments required.

This isn’t about bashing my parents. I’m sharing this so you can understand why my business is structured the way it is. Yes, this is about business and life.

I intentionally set up my business so I have the freedom to be the kind of mom I want to be. I’m the mom who brings the oranges to the games, the mom who drops off and picks up my kids.

It’s important to me to give them the chance to be kids and express themselves and experience all the fun of growing up.

Hear why letting go has been a key part of my journey. It’s not always easy but I realize now it’s always been worth it.

How can you create the life you want?

For me, it’s part of healing some childhood disappointments so I can be the mom I want to be. I can parent my way. I get to choose. What does choosing look like for you?

People heal.

That’s the message I got when I looked at my truth bomb card deck as I was preparing this episode.

Yes, we do. We heal and we get to become who we want to be.

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Creating Content Series EP 116

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0000

We always want to build out a runway of content before a course launch or new offer. You don’t want to be that person who never communicates until they are trying to sell something.

After all, customers want to know why they should buy so make it easy for them! When I brainstormed with a client recently, we came up with 20 ideas that she could use as part of a series to share before her upcoming launch. That’s what I’m breaking down in this episode.

A series is a collection of content based on a theme. It can be one big topic broken down into smaller segments. It can also be multiple ways to approach a solution, or a variety of perspectives about a single strategy.

Creating a series also allows you to go deeper on a topic. We have all seen the post title that sounded intriguing that ended up being a bullet point list that was on point but ultimately not that helpful.

Focus on creating smart, compelling content and your audience will look forward to the next installment. A challenge is a good example of this. A series allows you to build momentum for your audience.

You can create a custom page for your series. This is just one of the ways you can repurpose your content and use it as part of your customer journey. That’s a long game strategy I love to use.

Lastly, planning and batching this can be a huge time-saver. Once you’ve identified the idea, you can plan it out, record it at once or write it in a batch. This will make the process much more manageable.

Engagement and relationships are key. Use a series to demonstrate your expertise while providing content that’s valuable and helpful for your audience.

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The Phenomenon that is Amazon Prime Day EP 115

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Amazon Prime Day is here and in full force! Maybe you caught great deals, maybe you tried ignoring it, but quickly found it to be nearly impossible to not see. There is a reason Amazon is one of the largest e-commerce providers in the world. Valued at $1136.94 Billion as of July 2022, there are more than a few lessons we can learn from the online giant.

A quick Google search for Amazon Prime in the news section quickly reveals that their PR is the absolute best. No, it’s not by chance, it’s by design, research, and lots of psychology that Amazon Prime is one of the biggest events of the year.

“There are no wrong answers when it comes to how you want to handle things for your own business.” -Sandra Scaiano

Today I’m going over 5 keys lessons that small business owners can take away from Amazon Prime Day for the success of their own business. When a company is this successful and has a level of resources and access to research that you may not have, don’t be hasty to judge. Instead take notes and see how it can work for you. This is how you play The Long Game.

Create an event, not just a sale and make it annual
Refine your PR machine and affiliates, leverage access to other audiences
Get creative with live streaming opportunities with key influencers
Maximize your marketing channels and educate your consumers like a pro
Build urgency into your event to get people to act fast

“The primary success factor is knowing how to learn from others and rely on yourself.” -Dennis Waitley

Amazon has perfected this annual event that you can’t escape. It’s on every major news channel, it’s in every influencer’s social media feed, it’s on YouTube channels, and on your mother’s computer screen (really)! Prime Day has gone from $1Billion in the first year to $11 Billion in sales last year. Let’s take notes on what we are able to do and implement what makes sense for your business.

Episode mentioned:

Episode 80 - Black Friday Promotion Strategies with Maureen Mwangi

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The Canva Recipe with Brenda Cadman EP 114

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0000

What I love most about talking to other entrepreneurs is the new insights and perspectives they bring. When others share their zone of genius and methods, we learn what works and we get a sneak peek at how someone else does things.

Today’s guest is a great example of that.

Brenda Cadman is joining me, and she understands the importance of consistency in building a brand. She’s a verified Canva expert and has helped tons of people figure out how to manage and utilize Canva.

First, we dive into Brenda’s strategy and usage of free resources for prospects and clients. No surprise, she stresses the importance of repurposing. A very long game approach!

Don’t miss our discussion on using affiliate links in your free resources. Brenda reminds us to meet people where they are which is a great way to encourage people to try a new product or check out a service that’s new to them. When you are sincere about what you are promoting it’s a win for you and for the client.

Brenda just closed her membership. This was a big pivot and Brenda shared how it worked and why she decided to close it. Her experience is helpful to understand how to use the data to make good business decisions.

Don’t miss the genius behind this. She created a better way to support her clients and it saves her time too. Another win/win.

I love how experts like Brenda take this approach to share tips for popular software that many people already use. It’s such a good way to support people and help them use the tool they are already paying for.

Brenda explains that “everybody is wasting time in Canva” (ouch) and she’s on a mission to help us reclaim that time by sharing her tips and expertise. It starts with her organization tips. It made me realize that sometimes we don’t know all the capabilities because we don’t even know the questions to ask!

Here are Brenda’s 5 Steps to organizing your Canva files (or other things – these concepts work for all sorts of things)

Clear the deck. Get rid of the things you know you don’t need.
Create an archive folder if there are things you might need or aren’t sure where it might fit.
Make sure what’s left is searchable. Naming things accurately is the best way to be able to find exactly what you need, when you need it.
Evaluate what’s left and figure out how you can categorize broad topics (like social media) into specifics like LinkedIn, Instagram etc.
Batch move files into the correct folder to save time and make this piece go quickly. This is a pro tip and how-to.

Tip: If you feel like you are fighting your system, then you have some work to do. Don’t be afraid to personalize it in a way that works for you.

Last, hear how Brenda developed her brand personality with the baking theme. She also shares where she doesn’t use it. As she explains “don’t sacrifice clarity with cleverness”. This is such good advice and a long game philosophy. Be you, all the time!

Resources:

Brenda’s Website

Brenda’s Freebie Page

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How to Keep Connected to Past Clients EP 113

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Recently, a former client reached out asking for help. Our work together ended about 5 years ago when I built a website for her. We keep in touch now and then, but her recent request was a ask for help.

Her site was down, and she was looking for a resource. I’m glad she reached out to me and I was happy to point her in the right direction to resolve the issue. She then asked about doing some updates and wanted to know if that’s something she could hire me to do.

You know it’s a long game strategy conversation today.

My P.E.A.K. framework is all about client relationships and the K stands for keep in touch. Let’s dive into why it’s worth having a plan to reconnect with past clients

You never know when a past client will need your services again. Staying top of mind as a valued resource is a win/win.
When you are in touch, they have an opportunity to refer business your way. Timing is everything and when a friend asks for a recommendation, someone who has maintained a relationship is going to benefit.
It’s good for your brand! It’s not about selling all the time. Staying in touch is a great way to let clients know they weren’t just a transaction.

I know you agree this sounds nice but you’re wondering how to do this on top of taking care of current clients and everything else? I’ve got you.

5 ways to keep in touch with past clients.

Make the first move. Reach out with a text or email. Did something remind you of them? Give them a call and let them know they are on your mind.
Send a relevant article or blog post that you know will be helpful for them. Staying on top of trends or sharing something in the news about their industry is an easy way to let people know you’re thinking of them.
Tag clients in your email provider so you can send client only info. This takes a little set up time but once it’s done it is a great way to share information that’s only for them from a trusted resource (you!).
Engage on social media. Leave a thoughtful post or comment on their page or in response to something they have shared. Take time to really connect with a shared experience or a comment that shines the spotlight on the great work they are doing. Makes this a once a week 30-minute task.
Be the person who refers them! Make the introduction to someone you know will benefit from their expertise. There’s no better way to nurture your connections by helping them make relationships.

These don’t have to be everyday activities. Be intentional when you see an article or post or find an opportunity to refer or make introductions. Make a part of your process to quickly send an email or text.

Staying in touch is one of the best ways to gain new business from previous clients and make connections Strong relationships are a long game strategy that will always be on trend.

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Turning 50! EP 112

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 09:00:00 -0000

What does it mean to turn 50?

I know I’m not alone when I look back at the difference of 50 when I was young (my grandmother in her housecoat), to today’s version of 50. That Golden Girls meme is popular for a reason!

I’m taking a walk down the pop culture memory lane with reflections from 1972, the year I showed up in the world.

Top Music (albums back in the day!)

Stevie Wonder’s Talking Book
David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust
The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face by Roberta Flack was a top single
American Pie by Don McLean was too

What we watched on TV:

All in the Family
Sanford and Son
M*A*S*H debuted this year

The Equal Rights Amendment showed up again (after first being proposed in 1953!) and it’s still waiting to be ratified. Hear the fascinating history to all of this.

A consumer-based world was beginning, and it framed my experiences growing up.

I didn’t set out with a big plan for reflection, but as I did, I enjoyed looking back at life and how things have changed.

What kept coming up was the concept of commitment. I’m breaking down what that means to me.

In thinking about people from the past, the phrase a reason, a season and a lifetime resonates with me. Looking at relationships this way means you can always be open to new connections and be open to growing into who you want to become.

My commitments at 50 are my family, my work, my spirituality, and personal growth. We are at our best when we are purely being ourselves and letting our unique voice come through.

Keep sharing your story!

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Navigating Economic Slowdowns EP 111

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 09:00:00 -0000

I am part of several business communities and having experienced the ups and downs of business both pre-pandemic and post-pandemic, there were valuable lessons all of us had to learn. Becoming more adaptable, creative, and resilient ended up being a pandemic gift for some businesses.

A recession is a period of declining economic performance across an entire economy that lasts for several months (source)

Let’s take a sober look at what’s been happening since Covid rocked the entire world. Businesses that catered to the needs of the world and a workforce that shifted to homelife almost overnight were wildly successful. Peloton being one of those businesses, rocketed to being valued around $4 billion. As the world has adjusted to Covid and headed back to life outdoors, so have consumer needs, leaving companies like Peloton to fall in almost 80% value.

Global recession is a real concern and a conversation you’d have to go out of your way to avoid. Will there be an economic hurricane or an upward turn? This episode is about being prepared, smart, and proactive.

You have to know when and how to ride the waves. Learn how to see the downshifts in the markets before they happen so you can pivot and make smart business decisions.

Today I am giving you 5 ways to handle economic uncertainty. Both large and small business owners need to read the market and anticipate change. Whether you are a large business like Snapchat or Twitter, or a small web design and brand strategy business like mine, dealing with uncertainty is a guarantee, but it can still be fruitful if you play The Long Game!

Don’t freak out, see the opportunities around you
Keep in touch with your audience. What are they prioritizing?
Look at your offerings. How can you position your product or service to be a better fit for your audience?
Relationship marketing is key and something to double down on
Create partnerships and collaborations

As business owners, we need to be in touch with what consumers are going through to better position our products and services.

With an economic environment deteriorating so quickly, keeping your relational ties strong to your community, your clients, and your business network is going to separate businesses that survive and thrive from those that get lost in the recession.

Two things you must do in order to know what’s coming down the pipeline for your business:

Be well read and track industry news and aggregate news sites
Lean on your communities and business friends

Meet your audience where they are, bring them the value they need for the current economic environment, even it means lower ticket products or services that will get new traffic into your funnel.

Episode mentioned:

Episode 107 - Email Marketing with Ashley DeLuca

Quotes mentioned:

“The macroeconomic environment has deteriorated further and faster than anticipated. As a result, we believe that it is likely we will report revenue below the low end of our q2 2022 guidance range.” -Snap Stock (source)

“The global macroeconomic environment has become less favorable, the war in Ukraine has impacted our results and may continue to do so. Many other companies have been experiencing a similar effect” CEO of Twitter (source)

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THE LONG GAME is: Activism thru Art EP: 110

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 09:00:00 -0000

It's again a rocky political climate here in the U.S., with gun control, abortion rights, post-pandemic economies all highly charged conversations happening.

How we show up and choose to express ourselves during these times is part of our own journey to process, heal, and stand up for what we believe in.

Today's show is an encore presentation of Activism thru Art. In this episode I dive into 'Why does art matter?', artists who have influenced how we communicate today, and the role that art plays in activism.

All important pieces for how we as a society are representing ourselves and what we believe in.

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Clarity in Web Design EP 109

Fri, 27 May 2022 09:00:00 -0000

I consult with my clients all the time, and a common sticking point for most is simply not having a clear message. You’re in business, you have a product or service to market so you can close on sales and increase revenue, but not having a clear message about who you are, what you’re offering, and why people need what you have is killing your business.

If you can't clearly state what you do when someone lands on your website, they're going to move on!

Today I’m giving you 4 things to examine for your business website that you can improve to make sure you’re building design around your messaging, and not trying to fit messaging into a design that doesn’t serve your business goals. Let's get your messaging super clear!

Spend some time working on clearly stating what you do and who you serve.

Choose messaging that is clear and concise over clever, and you’ll start converting more visitors.

Make your Call to Actions (or CTAs) clear for potential customers.

Clearly present the next step you want the person visiting your website to take.

Make information easy to find on your website.

Don’t make visitors guess and fumble through your website. If they have to put in extra effort to find it, they will quickly move on.

Consider a mobile-friendly experience for customers.

Having clarity about your web design is at the heart of your business success, and it’s at the heart of everything you do on your website, your marketing, and your social media.

Messaging about your services and products, and the value you bring to the customers in your niche, should never be a mystery.

Key reminders:

Websites are malleable and can be changed at any time
If you don’t call your potential customers to action, they will walk away.
Scale down your content to make it mobile-friendly

Web design is really a series of strategic decisions made along the way, and when you are clear on your message and the outcome you want, it's easier to tackle the design issues one by one.

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Business As An Act of Rebellion EP 108

Fri, 20 May 2022 09:00:00 -0000

I’ve talked about knowing your why. The reason that motivated us to get started in entrepreneurship and stay with it is often a big, life-changing thing. It’s unique for each of us but often a rebellious-fueled reason (or two) is what helped us take a big step forward.

How we operate, communicate, and create can be continuous micro-acts of rebellion.

Today we are talking about your business as an act of rebellion.

Money claims, pressure tactics, how you lead your team; these are hot topics in the online business space.

Who decides what is ethical?

You do! The choices you make in your business are acts of rebellion. It’s all about how you show up. You get to decide boundaries, methods and more.

That’s rebellion.

Apply what you want from the coaches and gurus online. Take what works for you and discard the rest.

Here are a few examples of micro-acts of rebellion in business.

Scarcity tactics – there isn’t anything wrong with this, but I have never asked someone to make a decision on an initial call. Hear why I decided not to use this tactic in my business.
Marketing with money claims – I get it. We want to know that people can back up their offer, but promising millions to everyone who joins a program or course doesn’t feel right to me. Intellectually we understand those claims are not possible for every person. What if we let people buy based on other criteria? That’s a rebellion strategy for sure.

You get to create your own company culture.

That includes how you treat your team, how you interact with clients, how you manage ending a client relationship, and more.
The marketing strategies and practices that work for you are part of your culture. You can do what feels best for you

Present the new you!

You get to share your personal story.
Leave past anxieties (and the old “shoulds”) that aren’t you anymore.

Who are we rebelling against?

Bro marketing?

The status quo?

The gurus and millionaire promise-makers?

Maybe it’s all of the above.

We have the power to create the culture and community that aligns with our values and our vision. That’s the best act of rebellion!

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Email Marketing with Ashley DeLuca EP 107

Fri, 13 May 2022 09:00:00 -0000

List building has never been something I focused on. I’ve always done 1:1 work I have been able to stay busy with a full roster of clients. Growing a list is one of those things I’d do differently if I was starting over.

We are building businesses based on relationships.

Email marketing is one of those things that can help with all parts of your marketing. It gives you a great way to stay in touch and it’s an asset that you own. Today I’m talking about all the advantages to email marketing and relationship building.

Ashley DeLuca is here and she’s an expert when it comes to email marketing. She’s going to break down what’s working, why it matters and how we can all do this in a way that serves others as well as our businesses.

“Your business is not just the number of followers that you have it’s the community and relationships that you build within it.” Ashley DeLuca

Let’s talk opt-ins.

Ashley explains that this is where we can really target the clients that we want. Don’t be afraid to make that a paid opt-in. Ashley shares 2 great examples that you can use as inspiration.

Why I’m cleaning up my list.

I want people on my list who really want to hear from me. I’m getting ready to clean up my list, knowing that I may lose some followers but that’s ok. My goal is engagement, not a vanity metric.

Creating profitable conversations.

Purpose
3 Key points
Call to action

Ashley explains how she does this for herself and her clients to use emails to serve before we sell.

Is there a perfect welcome sequence?

Knowing your clients and what they need is important here. Ashley provides a few examples that work and ways you can optimize them for the target audience who is opting in for your information.

50% Open rates for real?

The open rate comes from the relationship you have with your subscribers, and the subject line. Ashley explains that it is a 50/50 formula. It’s also important to realize that how you show up outside of email matters as well.

Great email subject lines – how to create them and why it matters.

This is so helpful. The good news: you don’t have to be spammy or use deceptive methods. Ashely explains what works for her and gives a great tip that you can use for inspiration.

How to manage a sales sequence.

Ashley shares 2 great examples of what you can do to set expectation for your audience. She also explains how she lets her audience self-segment. This is so helpful!

I talk about the customer journey all the time with my clients. It’s just as important to think about it with the way you email and communicate. Ashley reminds us to be intentional about how to serve your audience.

If you’ve been reluctant to start a list, or you have a list that’s not getting much love, listen to this episode and be inspired to share and serve via email.

Connect with Ashley:

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The Life Feast with Lizzie LaRock EP 106

Fri, 06 May 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Today we’re talking with Lizzie LaRock and we’re discussing the power of creativity. She’s the creator of The Life Feast, a one-of-a-kind program she calls a movement and a mission.

How can we use creativity to live a bigger life?

How can we switch from consuming to creating?

Creativity is a state, not a trait. It’s a muscle that we all have and can build upon.

Lizzie shares why using her iPhone is what works best for her when she’s creating. It’s a great reminder to use what we have and take 15 minutes to take photos when you’re inspired.

To spark creativity Lizzie shares prompts to help people see their world with a new perspective. Here’s a few examples:

Worms eye view
Shoot from the hip
Focus on a specific color (what pops up?)
Birds eye view

Think play, curiosity, and sense of wonder. It’s something any of us can do as we begin to create. It allows all of us to be in flow leaving stress and perfection behind.

Lizzie also brings the science. She teaches mindfulness based in the rigorously researched, evidence-based, scientific study of positive psychology.

We need 3 positives for every negative in our day.

Reclaim your creativity!

Connect with Lizzie:

Life Feast Info

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PR for Visibility with Christina Nicholson EP 105

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 09:00:00 -0000

If you’ve been thinking about ways to grow your business, you may be looking at sales funnels, social media posts, TikTok, paid ads, and email campaigns. All of these are legit methods to employ in your strategy for growth, but there is one strategy you’ll want to give more attention to after this episode.

Public relations (PR) is about managing how others see you and your brand. It’s about a strategic communication process that gets you in front of the right people which makes growing your business much easier.

“You need PR to get big, you need PR to make money, you need exposure because people can't do business with you if they don't know about you.”

Maven Media founder, Christina Nicholson, was a TV reporter and anchor with lots of experience being pitched and given pitches. Her PR skills have landed her on podcasts such as Bossbabe, Entrepreneurs on Fire, Smart and Passive Income with Pat Flynn and so many more.

Today we’re talking about:

The power of PR placement for your business
Using social media to pitch
When and how to follow up on your pitch
How to pitch podcast shows specifically
Why PR is about relationship building and connection

“Advertising is saying you're good. PR is getting someone else to say you're good.”

Putting yourself out there is scary business, but not growing your business is a failing business and it requires maximum exposure. Guesting on podcasts, contributing to articles and local news appearances can do wonders for your business and your brand’s credibility.

Christina unloads so much value in this interview that you’ll want to take notes and start implementing her strategies right away! Here are a few tips Christina shares that are sure to get you noticed and in front of your audience faster.

TIP #1: Make it super easy on the person you are pitching to.

TIP #2: Create a Media List using a spreadsheet. Create a different tab for each angle you can pitch and start collecting podcasts for that angle with the contact information you need to submit a pitch. Work this spreadsheet for pitches and cycle through with a different topic each time.

TIP #3: Write subject lines people will open by making them short, catchy, and relevant to the person and what they do.

TIP #4: To pitch a podcast, be very specific about what you do and the tangible results and outcomes for the audience. Include personal elements that touch on their industry or one of the previous episodes

TIP #5: Block 2 hours every week to build your media list. Include people that are writing about your industry, active podcast platforms that speak to that industry or genre, and remember to follow and comment on their social media channels.

Christina is incredibly raw and candid about the PR business and has a no B.S. approach to the content and information she shares and teaches to others. If you want to check out the exact pitch she submitted to Pat Flynn to get on his podcast, head over to Podcast Clout.

Links to connect with Christina:

Tackle Your Fears Worksheet

Masterclass

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The Long Game is . . . Streamlining Offers EP 104

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Today I’m talking about streamlining your offers.

This is something that comes up for my clients and for me as well. I see so many people spending time energy on their offers, with mixed results.

In the past year, I’ve worked to streamline my own offers and it’s allowed me to scale my business up one more level.

Entrepreneurs are plagued by the list of good ideas we’d like to implement. Add to that mix the fact that many of us are multi-passionate and neuro-divergent and we end up with a jumble of information that we want to share. Nothing is landing because we’re not specific or targeted as a result.

What is streamlining?

To me, streamlining is about flow. It’s about putting systems and processes in place that give us ease in our work. Flow feels good.

Hear how I define streamlining as it relates to offers. I think it will resonate with you as well.

Note: This is not about pigeon-holing you into only doing one thing. It’s about being known for expertise in one specific area. This allows you to leverage your offers while keeping them streamlined.

It’s also about clear messaging. People need to hear your message more than once and keeping a focused approach will help people recognize how you can help them.

Examples of streamlining offers:

Create a signature offer and message. Build on that over time. Example Marie Forleo and B-School.
The same services with various price points and value. Example: Me! I have a high touch done-for-you offer, a mid-range done-for-you offer (with less included) and a small group strategy program that leads members through the same processes I use with my done for you clients. Coming soon: my course as the DIY version of the same frame work as an entry level program.
Packaging, partnerships, and placement. Example: beauty products at hotels. This allows them to place their core products in different packaging to reach new potential clients for their full-size versions. This works with services too – done for you vs. DIY for example.

Hear how I breakdown the way this can work for an email marketer. You’ll see how easily the messaging and offers compliment each other with a variety of options. Similar messages with varying offers = streamlined.

What if you have expertise in multiple areas? This is where you must be intentional about your messaging, and timing of content and offers. Hear how you can create a runway of messaging so that it’s clear and not confusing.

This long-game strategy is one that will pay off again and again. Streamlining will help you stay in control and feel confident about what you offer, and the messaging that supports it.

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Make It Happen with Coach Jennie EP 103

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 09:00:00 -0000

How am I supposed to get this all done?

I know I’m asking myself that all the time. Lots of creative people feel this way. We have big ideas, and we want to see them come to life.

Today’s guest is the coach for humans who have impatient ambition. Can you relate? Coach Jennie is going to show us how to stop squandering our potential and make things happen.

How did the concept of make-it-happen come to life?

Coach Jennie wants everyone to know there is nothing wrong with you. She busts a few myths about coaching advice we’ve all heard.

She explains that we all need a way to think through what’s going on. The solution is not to ignore it. Make It Happen was created to help people take action. We all have more how-to information than we can possibly implement.

She supports people to follow through to their commitment to themselves.

Hear how she helps people get from creating strategy (something lots of us visionaries love to do) to implementing. Not just any action but the right action. It’s not about productivity (doing more) it’s about doing the thing that will get your closer to your goal.

Check out the question she asks her clients – and ask yourself too.

What opportunities are you actively seeking?

Not planning, or researching, but actively doing? It might feel like a subtle shift; but there’s a big difference between planning and executing the plan. Coach Jennie gives some great examples that all of us can relate to.

Hear what to do when you hit the “this sh*t just got real” moment.

Give yourself some credit
Collect proof of your brilliance
Puddle jumping – bet this is something you do too!
Not sharing our successes

Coach Jennie shares a great tip about how to get perspective (and feedback) demonstrating your expertise.

What should you want?

This is something that’s pervasive in many online communities. Does everyone really want to write a book? Are we all trying to get to 7 figures? Coach Jennie brings some sanity to this tricky topic.

Group coaching is magical. – Coach Jennie

The power of coaching by proxy is legit. It’s when you learn from seeing someone else being coached. It also means you are not alone; you are not the only person who has been where you are.

Group coaching is also where I’ve gotten some great ideas. Hearing what works in a completely different industry has sparked something I can model in my business. Insights that wouldn’t come from 1:1 coaching.

Monday Morning Moxie

This is part of Coach Jennie’s magic. You must hear how she does this and the way it’s impacted her members. Genius!

No Facebook Group WHAT?

Coach Jennie’s group doesn’t have a Facebook group or a forum of any kind. She provides other ways for her members to connect with her when they need something specific. There are other ways to build community and we talk about how she does that for her members.

Jennie wants everyone to feel accomplished. Not productive. There’s a big difference between I did a thing in Trello to I crossed a frickin’ finish line.

I know Long Game fans are action takers. You’re here because you want to do work you love and make an impact. Here’s to making it happen!

Connect with Coach Jennie

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Elevate Your Voice with April Pertuis EP 102

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Have you ever thought about being an author or stepping on stage to speak? If so then you know you must have a well-crafted story. On today’s episode I’m talking with April Pertuis, a story expert.

She’s not just talking about how to tell a story, but how to make sure it gets out to those who are ready to hear it.

“Publishing the book is only half the work.” April Pertuis

April’s book project, Elevate Your Voice is now available on Amazon. Check out the stories of the 14 women who worked with April to share their stories as only they could.

This isn’t your typical book collaboration. April developed a program centered around embracing and telling their stories. The book is the bonus, the tangible result of the work and experience.

These women worked together in a community. Yes, each person had their own story and April led them through the process in weekly calls as a group. A professional editor was hired too.

All the participants received feedback from April the story expert, from Lanette Pottle the publisher and from the editor. With each piece of feedback, the authors were able to refine and polish their story.

Hear how these authors can now share these stories (and others) in multiple ways moving forward. Some of the participants feel confident and ready to write their own book after learning how story development and publishing work.

April breaks down how people chose the stories they wanted to share. There was an over-arching theme, but each person chose what was meaningful to them.

When you hear this table of contents (each story) you’re going to be blown away!

What’s next?

We know that the publication of the book is really the beginning. It’s the opening of a door for the authors.

One woman launched a business as a result of telling her story
Another is now writing her own full-length book
Another group is already on the way to publishing book number 2!
April has seen increased visibility and opportunities as a result of working on this project

I love that this is a springboard for those who chose to participate. In long game style, opportunities show up when we face the fear and move forward.

Hear how April determined if this project would be a good fit for her. This insight and perspective are something we can all benefit from.

Another long-game approach: community.

These women are now connected. They supported each other and they all helped one another. Relationships were formed that will continue well beyond the publish date.

We finish up with the marketing info. April and her team developed an incredible plan for promotion. Hear what they created to make sure the book was a success. Just a few things included:

Graphics and materials with a cohesive brand across all authors
Developed a launch team to help with promotions
Set up interviews to help each author

The next cohort has begun! April shares how one of the authors in the 2nd group helped an author who was fearful to open the box of books when they arrived. You’re going to love it.

Lastly, the proceeds of the book are going to Kiva! What an amazing way to pay it forward.

I’m going to make sure April comes back later this year to give us an update on how the book and the authors are doing as well as info on the next one!

Buy the book!

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Happiness Leads To Success EP 101

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 08:00:00 -0000

“The actions that you took last year brought you to where you are today.”

I’m using this quote in my up-coming webinar. What you did last year contributed to where you are now.

What you do every day makes an impact in where you’ll be tomorrow. I’m having all the feels around this because I’ve been head down working on my own business.

It’s been so intense, I my eye developed a twitch! Yeah. That happened. It was a good reminder for me to remember what is important.

That brought me to “blissipline”. A long game term for sure! Hear how I found it and what it means to me.

It’s everything!

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Jersey Pride EP 100

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Episode 100!

You already know podcasting is a long game strategy for me so it’s extra special to be hitting episode 100. It’s a good reminder that I can show up, be consistent and share information that’s helpful. Thanks for being here with me. I’m so glad to be on the journey with you.

We are all the sum of our experiences. My Jersey roots are definitely a part of me. I’m proud of the fact that New Jersey is one of the most diverse places in the US.

Today’s show is all about my Jersey Pride!

First, I’ll admit that there is a bit of truth about some of the Jersey stereotypes. And, there is so much more.

What exit? Yes, it’s true. It’s an identifier for the locals. When out-of-towners use it, we know you’re trying to poke fun. Guess what? Jersey peeps don’t care.

It’s known as the Garden State for a reason. We grow corn and sunflowers and all kinds of produce here.

Other Jersey Facts:

72 mile of the Appalachian Trail runs through New Jersey
We call the 100’s of miles of beaches the shore.
Jersey is adjacent to the city. (that’d be NYC of course)
You can get disco fries 24/7 in Jersey.
Pork rolls, we got ‘em
Also grease trucks and fat cat sandwiches
Bagels and pizza (made the only way they should be made)
We have jug handles (IYKYK)

I hope that hearing about what it means to be from Jersey gives you a bit more insight to who I am. Jersey is part of me.

On this business journey, I’ve become the truest form of myself. I continue to learn and drop what doesn’t work, or fit. I’m paying attention to the signs to pause or to jump in with both feet and everything in between.

Thank you for being part of this Long Game Jersey-Girl podcast! I couldn’t do it without you.

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Minimalist Method with Marta Sauret Greca EP 99

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Can we have success and lives that feel spacious and encompass joy?

I believe we can. That’s what guest Marta Sauret Greca and I are talking about on this episode. She’s figured out how to manage a very busy life and she teaches her clients to do the same.

She uses the minimalist method that she’s created and is now teaching, and we are diving into all of it on today’s podcast.

Marta is a mom of 5, the primary breadwinner in her family, business owner and author. She struggled growing her business until she developed her Minimalist Method and began using it herself. Business started expanding and she’s since taught her clients the same process.

What is the Minimalist Method?

It’s not about how little you can get by with, it’s about being intentional about what you allow to fill up your space. That means your physical space, your mental head space, your energetic space, and your schedule. It’s about being intentional about what you allow in, and de-cluttering the things that no longer serve you.

The work includes:

Mindset
Schedules and systems
Energetic work
Marketing and tech tasks that you need to let go

Marta’s story is compelling. Life circumstances required her to downsize and get by with much less for a while. That’s when she realized that she had to be intentional about what she could say yes to, and all the things that were a solid no.

What’s the path to minimalism?

It’s a combination of lots of things to be sure, and Marta shares how she uses time-blocking and creates times for work, times for home-schooling and other responsibilities. She also encourages everyone to ignore the myth that homeschooling, or entrepreneurship means hours and hours of time every day.

Use systems and processes for yourself and for your team. Allow others to bring solutions to the table as you grow and as your team takes on more responsibility. She also highlights being compassionate and understanding. We’re all human. Leave the drama and create space for discussing and implementing solutions. That’s a Long Game approach for it as well.

Marta teaches her clients to self-coach themselves. Making mindset shifts is key for personal and professional growth. She also teaches her clients how to outsource and manage work that others can do well, so they can focus on what only they can do.

Marta and I both think of our client work as a partnership. We understand their businesses, which means we can help make connections and find ways to feature them.

As my own business has grown, like Marta, I’ve become much more comfortable with knowing where I fit, what type of clients I want to work with and the trade-offs I am willing and not willing to make to be successful.

Doing less and living more really is possible.

Resources:

Marta’s Website

The Minimalist Method Book

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Countering Productivity Culture EP 98

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Is it necessary to be productive all the time? We put a lot of pressure on ourselves to execute and that’s understandable. Like you, I want to be successful and I’m willing to do the work.

There’s also a time to pause, reflect and listen. As entrepreneurs we get to create how we want to work and how we want to feel as well. Today’s episode is all about countering the productivity culture long game style.

Productivity is a hold-over from the corporate world where time is money.

I grew up going to the lake with my friend and we would canoe for hours, paddling and soaking up the sun. When you are paddling you are focused on the action to propel you forward through the water.

When you stop and sit back and glide, you can take in the environment, and you stop moving. Both actions are what make being on the water fun. The action and the pause. The same is true in business.

I’ve been hearing from clients and peers that we can’t take a break from posting and producing. We feel guilty if we take a social media break. Without the pause, there’s no place for a break or time for reflection. Consistency is important, but so are creative breaks.

Results come from what you do most of the time, not some of the time.

When you stop pushing, you can listen. You can pay attention to what people are responding to. What questions and new insights are showing up with your work?

That’s part of long game thinking. Executing, assessing what’s working (or not) and then using that data to create even better content and impact.

Going through the process is ultimately where the value is for you, the creator.

Hear how The Queens Gambit (Netflix) is a great example of this long game strategy. There were periods of productivity, long pauses followed by continued pursuit to get the mini-series filmed. It was one of 2020’s most watched shows that might not have happened. The producer didn’t let this sit on the shelf. He kept moving forward, working with different writers, with long gaps where things didn’t come together. Until they did.

Exploring the path that excites you is part of the journey. It’s okay to lower the pressure with periods of rest and reflection so you can keep moving forward in ways that are interesting and rewarding for you, and for your business.

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Anchor Pages with Krysty Krywko EP 97

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest is the person who introduced me to the concept of morning pages. Julia Cameron, author of The Artists Way, explains them this way:

This is an exercise that helps you have more consciousness during your day. It’s a process to help open your creativity. It’s all about uncovering, getting unstuck.

Today’s guest, Krysty Krywko, has her own process called anchor pages. She uses art and creativity to help people heal.

First up we talk about how Krysty chose to rebrand herself and her business. She shared why she knew she needed to make the change AND admitted why it felt so hard to release the old name/brand.

“I can change my mind anytime I want to change my mind”. – Krysty

Krysty shares her anchor pages process and how she uses this in her own work. It’s working through a series of prompts.

Name it and claim the emotions you are feeling right now.
How do you want to feel?
What actions do you need to take?

She reminds us that the actions are usually small steps that allow us to make a change.

Krysty reminds us that it’s perfectly fine to start where you are, with what you have. Use the kids crayons and markers, cut photos out of magazines. Her advice: don’t censure. Just start.

The power lies in the process.

Final words: Start where you are. Don’t worry about showing anyone else and remember that there are no rules. You can’t do it wrong!

Connect with Krysty

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Using QR Codes EP 96

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 10:00:00 -0000

This episode is for all of you who are curious about QR codes. When the pandemic hit restaurants used them so we could quickly see the digital menu. Then the 7-million-dollar Superbowl ad ran with nothing but a QR code bouncing around the screen.

20 million hits in a minute! Yeah. What gives?

That’s what I’m diving into today. QR codes. What are they, how to use them, and more.

What are QR codes?

QR stands for quick response. The code is an encrypted square (sometimes other shapes) that you can scan with your phone. The code holds information and scanning it gives you access.

How can you create a QR code?

You can create a code using a code-generator. There are 2 types, static and dynamic. Hear the different pros and cons of each to determine which would work best for your application.

What can you do with your QR code?

There are a lot of options. One of the easiest is asking for reviews. With a QR code you can send customers directly to your Google My Business Page to rate and review your services.

Another common use is out of home advertising. Think busses, billboards and signs in public spaces.

What can small business owners in the digital space do with QR codes? Here’s a few ideas to get you started:

Networking and connections. Have a QR code that takes someone to your contact info, or directly to your social media platform of choice so it’s easy for them to follow you.
Send people to an opt-in page to get your pdf. Use a QR code as a content upgrade to your in-person presentation. Tip: if cell phone coverage might be a concern, have a plan B as well.
Put your code into your Zoom background. Talk about making it easy!
Add them to your YouTube videos. Remember this is for those who watch on TV, tablets or a laptop so they will be able to scan the code with their phone.
Think about the experience. People will be using their phone so make sure the destination page is easy to read, and don’t make them click around to find what they are looking for.

One of the best things? This is the ultimate in quick gratification. It’s fast, easy, and immediate. Another bonus: no typing!

Here are a few more ideas:

Create a playlist. You can share his on your site, in an email, or printed materials.
Hello Audio allows for private podcast feeds. You can share this with everyone or as a bonus for your members or course attendees. How cool is that? Special content just for them!
QR code as part of invoicing! Make it easy to get paid.

Once you decide how you want to use your code, her are a few options for creating one. Think about what you need. Will you want to collect data? Then you’ll need a paid version. You can then make data informed decisions when you see what works best.

Find an easy way to get started. Once you see the options, you’ll find even more ways to make this simple to use technology work for you.

Options:

QR Code Monkey

QR Code Generator

Flowcode

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Is Pre-Selling For You? EP 95

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 10:00:00 -0000

There’s a strategy that’s discussed in digital marketing and online sales – it’s so popular that it’s taught as a go-to method for filling your course.

That’s today’s topic: pre-selling. Is it for you? How can you decide if it fits your course, and the clientele you are looking to reach?

This can be a good strategy because it can alleviate inventory issues and help with up front costs. It’s worth knowing the pros and cons so you can determine if this is a good fit.

One key benefit that’s mentioned most often is that you are testing the market before spending a lot of money and time on development. You will definitely find out if your audience wants what you have to offer.

If you are new to this business model, I don’t advise pre-selling. It creates a lot of pressure to get things done in a very short time frame. Your audience might still be getting to know you and might not be ready to invest just yet.

If you have a large following of people who know you and are already familiar with your work pre-sales might work well. You will have their trust based on the relationship you’ve been nurturing with content, and other things they may have already purchased from you.

Creating your course helps you home in on what is going to work. The process is instructive for the creator. If you are new to the process, plan on needing more time than you expect.

Everything from writing and recording the content will take longer as well as understanding how your tribe can best learn what you are teaching. What do they need to know before signing up?

One of the biggest things to consider: what happens if only 2 people (or 12 or 20) buy from your pre-sale campaign? You now need to deliver, and you are committed to the investment of time and resources.

Hear the 5 questions to consider as you plan your course as well as your launch method.

Prospective clients want to know that you are going to solve their problem. I hear “tell me what to do” all the time when I’m chatting with clients.

Lastly, how do you work best? Do you like to be rushing right up to deadlines or do you like planning things out and staying two steps ahead?

Choose a path that sets you up for success.

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Public Speaking with Laurie Gilbertson EP 94

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 10:00:00 -0000

I am excited to bring this guest on to talk about one of the topics that I’ve been working on for myself and my clients.

Get practical tips and advice on how you can develop the skills to speak with comfort, ease and authenticity. Laurie Gilbertson is here to share how she helps her clients communicate effectively.

Here’s what we cover:

Why sharing your story is important.
How to bring yourself in a confident way.
Understanding how to calm your nerves when it’s time to take the stage.

We have all been on the receiving end of a great presentation. I encourage my clients to create their signature talk, and the number one question they ask is how can I do it in a way that will really connect?

Laurie has an incredible story. She was a prosecutor who learned how to speak in court rooms! She’s a great example of how we can hone our skills no matter what our background.

Public speaking isn’t about being on a BIG stage, unless that’s part of your personal goals. It’s about communicating. In all sorts of situations. Learning to communicate well pays off in all parts of your business and life.

Laurie shares 3 key strategies for getting comfortable speaking. These will help anyone become better communicators.

Connection:

One of the best ways to gain confidence is to remember it’s about your audience. It’s not about you. Think about how you can connect with them.

Communicate: How can you get your communication across effectively? Laurie shares 2 great tips to help you jump in with energy.

Conquer: Tell your story with comfort and ease and emotion. It’s the “so what” part of your presentation. Why should your audience care? What do you want them to do when you complete your presentation? Hear how you can use your story to make this easy.

Tips to help you get started.

Focus on making a good first impression.
How can you turn a weakness into a strength?
Tell a story. Laurie shares a great way to frame your story – so helpful!
The power of the pause.
Use a prop to help you make a point.
Final messages matter too.

Have some fun with it if your content allows for that. It’s a great way to show your personality and the audience picks up on the energy as well.

When is the time to invest in help to become a better presenter?

It’s never to early to learn. Laurie shares that communication isn’t always valued until it’s time for a big interview or presentation. She encourages all of us to realize the impact of being a good communicator.

Resources:

Episode 91

Tribeca Blue Consulting

Start with Why TED Talk

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Idea Organization EP 93

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Organizing is critical if you want to remember your ideas long enough to share and execute on them. Today’s flash of inspiration may be forgotten if you don’t have a method for retaining and retrieving it when it’s time to act.

I’m a collector of ideas. I save them on Evernote, jot things down on paper and use the occasional post-it or napkin if that’s what it takes when an idea comes my way. Today I’m sharing how I’m wrangling all this great info into a system that works for me and my team.

Two big things are clear:

Not having an organized system meant a time-consuming search now and then. I knew I had the info somewhere and the hunt would begin until I found it.
I was the only one who could find it! Even if someone wanted to help it was impossible for that to happen.

Moving from the journal system to Evernote helped, but still it wasn’t enough. I knew there had to be a better way.

Ideas are assets. They are part of what I do and it’s important to me to treat them that way. Setting up an organization process is the answer. Here’s how I’m doing it.

Identify your silos of content categories. Big picture things.
Create a system that supports the way you think. Hear my example and see how you can do this in your own way. It’s helping me create uniformity and consistency.
Pick the right software. This can be time consuming, but ultimately worthwhile to make sure you find what works for you. Hint: use software you are familiar with.
Get help. Let others on your team be part of this. You don’t have to do it all yourself just like you don’t have to remember it all either! Once the systems are set up, others can help keep it running. Huge long game strategy.

Create what works for you. Treat your ideas like the treasures they are!

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Visibility Update #2 EP 92

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Today I’m sharing my quarterly update about visibility.

I did my first update back in October. (Episode 77) That’s when I shared that increasing my visibility was a key priority for me.

It’s been a few months so I thought it would be helpful to share what I’ve done so far, what’s working and my take on how things are going.

Visibility is a process.

Showing up consistently is what moves the needle. A random email or a few posts on social media may be better than not doing anything, but it’s not going to help much either.

When you show up, people get to know you and that’s my goal. It’s the whole ballgame really. I want to nurture and develop relationships. That’s what visibility is about for me, relationships.

Lesson One

A well-placed testimonial can do wonders (and it’s okay to ask!)

It’s more than just social proof. Hear what happened when one of my clients shared her success in a Facebook group, mentioning me as well as tagging me. I wasn’t aware she was going to do that and oh boy, did it make an impact.

Get a few ideas about how you can use that over and over.

Lesson Two

Honing your signature talk real life example. (Lots more details in episode 91)

The testimonial created over 30 calls with potential new clients! I did some homework before the call, so I has some context about their work. I did a lot of listening too!

When it was time for me to share my vision, and information I was able to give relevant information that was helpful to them. Hear how I was able to get really clear on how I want to talk about my business during those conversations.

I’ve got my signature talk down now and I’m ready for the Today show to call!

Lesson Three

You must put your offers out to the world.

We hear this all the time, but we still don’t do it enough. People follow you and engage with you for a reason. Share your offers with new people of course and don’t forget to remind those who’ve been following you for a while that you’d like to work with them as well.

Lesson Four

Whatever you are doing, do it consistently.

I’ve been showing up weekly with my podcast for almost 2 years. I’ve been emailing my list weekly for months. People have emailed me with such nice responses and they have also reached out to work with me. All because I connect with them weekly.

You are also getting data when you take action consistently.

Bonus: I’m on TikTok @studiosandrasky

Check me out there and let me know what you are doing to increase your visibility. I’d love to connect.

Connect with Sandra:

The Content Creator’s Studio

"Most people need consistency more than they need intensity. Intensity makes a good story; consistency makes good progress." – James Clear, Author Atomic Habits

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The Long Game Is... Your Signature Talk EP 91

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 10:00:00 -0000

How do those who command the stage, (like Brené Brown and others) create such thought-producing talks? I’ve always wanted to be an orator and I’m in awe when I hear someone who does it well.

Today I’m sharing my personal journey with you around building my own signature talk. We’re coving what it is, and why you need one, even if you never plan to get up on the big stage.

A strong presentation can be fun and interesting and really motivating. How can you capture an audience?

Practice, practice practice.

One of the best ways to build your following is to be introduced to the audience of others. I learned this years ago in my PR days. You don’t have to know everyone, thought a good connection is always helpful, but you do have to pitch well.

That’s where your signature talk can help you. Hear my 3 key questions to help you identify your personal presentation.

I’m breaking down the steps involved so you can master your message. Like many things in marketing, it can feel overwhelming until you tackle it one piece at a time.

Once your talk is ready to go, it’s time to present it. Everywhere!

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Podcast guest on someone else’s show
Create a webinar and “teach” your talk
Promote on social media, incorporate it into your ads
Use part of your talk in your sales conversations
Blog posts
Videos, both short and long form
Get in front of an industry group
Pitch conferences and business events you attend

Create a one sheet about your talk. Here are 4 things to include:

How to reach you and links to the socials where you are active
A brief bio
Suggested topics – listen for a few ways to break this down for the interviewer so they can be inspired by your content
Suggested questions – this will help someone see how to direct the conversation
Bonus: Logos or other podcasts and press outlets where you’ve been profiled is great social proof

2022 is about visibility.

Check out my one sheet and share your signature talk with me. What’s one way you are making your work more visible this year?

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Content Creation with Jen Liddy EP 90

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 10:00:00 -0000

One of the things I talked about in last week’s episode was you do you.

Well, today I’m talking to Jen Liddy, a content creation specialist. She helps people create content in a way that’s easy and sustainable.

We know creating content is important. And still, many of us struggle. Jen starts by explaining the 2 camps of people who struggle with content. I promise you’ll see yourself in one of them!

Next, how do we put the content out there? Creating is one thing, but how can we share it with people who are looking for the info? Jen covers that too!

People will fall in love with you when you show up as yourself.

Jen shares how with her 5 Steps to Batch and Repurpose Content Planning System. Here are the highlights:

Identify what you have going on in your business that you want to promote. Reverse engineer what you need your content to do. Jen explains how to do this in a way that’s super simple.
Where do you want to be? What platform feels good to you? What would feel expansive to eliminate? Less really can be more!
What are you going to say? Jen explains her umbrella plan. This is a manageable way to plan your content for the month. Don’t worry, you will love how easy she makes it.
Put the time to create your content on your calendar. Co-work with a friend or find another way to find accountability if you need to. Hear her 3 tips to make this easier.

Repurpose it. Reminder, your people will not mind seeing some of the same info more than once. In fact, sharing it in more than one way will help it click for them. Jen gives great examples here to get your started.

Get Jen’s Planner Tool

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What To Do in 2022 EP 89

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Happy New Year!

I’m optimistic for the year ahead. Last year I really discovered things about myself. I stepped into new things and made some changes that have been good for me.

Guess what my word for the year is? VISIBILITY!

Yep, I’m here to keep showing up, long game style of course.

Today I’m sharing my take on what’s ahead in 2022 and some ideas that you can use as you plan your goals.

What’s going to be important and what are we going to commit to?

Those questions are going to help you much more than a list of trends. No surprise, the 3 I’m sharing are all long game strategies!

“There is a cost to keeping your old way of thinking.”

Strategy 1 – Go Digital

If you have been thinking about having a course or program online, this is the time. Hear the 3 things that digital products can do for you. It’s so powerful, and it’s not too late!

“When you do you, joy enters.”

Strategy 2 – You Do You

Bring yourself to the party in 2022. This is SO long game. It’s the best way to run your business. Your way. Hear the 4 questions that will help you identify where you can personalize and do things in your own style.

Here’s what I know for sure. You will be more successful, and you’ll be happier too! I’m giving you permission to do what you want to do, how you want to do it!

“You didn’t get into this for it to suck.”

Strategy 3 – Testing, testing, testing.

This concept has stayed with me since my Facebook ad days. You know what? Know one knows the answer that will work every time. There is no magic pill or formula. You will always need to test for your audience to see what works.

Hear 3 ways you can try new things, as part of your testing process.

Tell me what’s on your agenda for 2022.

What are you dedicated to doing your way?

Reach out and let me know and if I can help, let’s have a chat!

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The Best of The Long Game... iPhone Photography EP 88

Fri, 31 Dec 2021 10:00:00 -0000

This episode originally aired 6/18/2021

My own training included a BFA with a definite interest in photography. I learned how to interpret images, convey your message with imagery, execution of images, darkroom techniques, and more.

I also share:

My personal history with photography, from the Kodak 110 to the Kodak Disc camera
What I learned from studying photography through high school and college
The importance of the book Ways of Seeing by John Berger
Why seeing and recognition—visual understanding—is so important to what we understand and what we share.
How I used my degree to photograph much of the hip hop and cultural scene of the 1980s

I also learned why it’s important to acquire a “design eye” when sharing your brand. Now I know what works, what doesn’t work and what could work when it comes to images and how to apply these concepts to working with brands.

Some of the ways digital photography has improved the ways you can share your brand:

Using photography on websites, social media and more
The importance of a specific direction to keep you on task
How digital cameras and phones have really enlarged the barriers to snapping unlimited photographs

There are some classical foundational concepts such as composition, background and lighting you can apply when taking photos. Here’s what I share in this area:

A shortcut to easily open the camera on your phone (bet you don’t know this one!)
Some concepts that professionals all use when they take photos, such as the “rule of thirds” to create a more engaging image for you (and where to find this on your iPhone)
How to make the most of selfies—what to do to improve them
Tips to upgrade the backgrounds in your photos (and avoid the faux pas made by Megan Kelly at the Billboard Music Awards)
The unexpected tip for best lighting when taking photos outdoors
The best lighting when you’re indoors and how to get the most of it (especially important for product photography)
Artificial lights: pros and cons

Remember, the better quality of light, the better clarity of image, too. You really can tell the level of professionalism from the quality of the light.

A few other tips about iPhone modes:

How to use the portrait mode on your camera
“The blitz” and how it can help you capture that split-second image
The insider trick you’ve never heard before to get full clarity and sharpness in your photos
The importance of the timer function on your phone
Other fun gadgets you can buy to help you take steady photos for sharper images

Don’t forget that all these concepts apply to photographs of people as well as things. You may be surprised by the amazing quality you achieve with landscapes or your products. So head out this summer, snap away and share with your audience!

Links:

Megan Kelly with mop and broom

John Berger, Ways of Seeing

Connect with me on social media:

Website: https://sandrasky.com/podcast/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandrascai/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sandrascai/

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Best Of The Long Game... Inspiration EP 87

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 10:00:00 -0000

This episode originally aired 4/2/21

Imagine inspiration on demand!

That’s today’s topic. Sandra shares how and why ideas can come easily sometimes, and elusive at others.

Remember the move 9 to 5?

Sandra shares the inspiration that Jane Fonda had to get this movie created.

Here’s what she covers:

Be open to disruption, making changes when inspiration hits.
Solitary times give your brain a moment to come up with a great idea.
Ideas come up when we listen with a true desire to understand.
Be open when the dots start to connect.
Implement the inspiration!

Inspiration doesn’t show up out of nowhere. It’s often related to something you’ve already been considering or mulling over.

Find out what you need to have “thinking time” and have a method to track and note the great ideas when they show up.

Two Doors Down

9 to 5 Song

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The Long Game Is... Podcasts & Audio Content with Phyllis Nichols EP 86

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 09:00:00 -0000

This is a fun episode! I’m talking with Phyllis Nichols the head of the podcast team who help me get my show out every week.

We are talking about using your podcast as pillar content. We know that podcasting has grown a lot in recent years. Why is podcasting a great way to create pillar content?

· Ease of creation. Most of us find talking about topics familiar easy, it’s a form of communication we’re used to.

· Evergreen and lasting. New people can quickly review past content that’s still relevant.

· We are hard-wired to connect with the voices of others and we pick up on the energy and tone of the content as well.

· People feel connected to the content and the podcast host/s.

· Repurposing and reach are automated and powerful. Multiple platforms allow for reach internationally as well as in-home devices like Alexa.

How can you leverage your content?

· Use free content to serve your audience and add additional value in a paid format.

· Package content into a mini course. Add context or a resource like a checklist to enhance the experience.

· Put some shows behind a paywall after being free. Great idea for popular content that gets repeated listens.

· Highlight members on your podcast. This is an easy way to add value and promote the people in your community doing cool things.

· Create how-to audio content for your course so that learners who like to listen can easily consume the information.

We also talk about learning styles and really knowing your audience. What is their lifestyle? Do they commute or work from home? Are they visual learners? Do they like to re-listen or re-watch your training? That’s where audio can really help.

As a content creator, you can keep your audience up to date with quick add on content. Keep your course and/or membership up relevant by adding up to date info quickly and easily.

Hear all the repurpose ideas for using your audio content beyond transcripts.

How can you find out WHAT to post? Hear the “ice-cream” story. What’s your version of ice-cream in your business? That’s your pillar content foundation!

Phyllis also shares her vision for the SoundAdvice.FM network. It’s a place for women-hosted podcasters. The goal is to elevate and amplify women’s voices.

I’m a member of the network and looking forward to connecting and collaborating with others. I am happy to be here in the beginning!

We wrap up talking about vision. Dreaming big is for all of us! Phyllis asked me about what’s new with me and I outlined what’s coming up in the beginning of 2022 and there’s so much happening. It’s exciting.

Get inspired to dream big with us!

Connect with Phyllis:

SoundAdvice.FM

50 Plus Women AreThe New Entrepreneurial Superpower

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Holiday Gift Guides 2021 EP 85

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 09:00:00 -0000

It’s the second annual holiday gift guide. We’ve been hearing since October that this year we must shop early. Supply chain issues were predicted to cause delays and empty shelves.

I followed the advice and now there are gifts in the basement and they’ve been there for a couple of months!

The holidays are a great time for entrepreneurs who have digital products. What’s better than a great experience? How about a gift that someone can use all year long? That’s what digital can do.

Here are my digital gift suggestions for holiday 2021.

· Membership to WFUV radio – Music discovery starts here! Hear how you can get a free gift.

· Netflix – Great for anyone, especially those who don’t have space or interest in more stuff.

· The Real Deal Weight Loss program. This is good for yourself and for anyone who wants to incorporate new habits with support.

· Create Your Business subscription box. This has a digital and physical product. It is perfect for a business bestie.

· Parent to Pro is a great gift for people who want to get support helping their child.

· Online cooking classes with Chef Rama! Who wouldn’t like this? Do it with your children to promote a fun family night.

· Alchemy and You – a membership to help you align your internal power. Find out the best time is to launch, or when Mercury is going into retrograde. Find out how to get your natal birth chart too!

Shop local. Support small businesses in your area (or online) if you can.

Make sure to listen for the gift that I predict will be the most popular at my house. Bonus it also takes care of Christmas morning breakfast!

Get those photos off your phone. You can download prints online (I use Walgreens) and have them printed. Share a stack with family. No shipping required.

I wrap up with a gift that costs no money but will make someone’s day. Don’t miss this one!

I hope this gave you some new gift ideas. No worries about shipping or delays when you go digital. Happy shopping!

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The Long Game Is . . . Scrapping it All EP 84

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Have you ever wanted to scrap it all? Completely overhaul your website? Change your offer? Redo your entire course funnel? Yep. It’s common among entrepreneurs and I’m no different.

This has been a dramatic year for me and my business. I’ve focused on my core values, and it’s changed everything. So, this weekend I realized that I need to make some dramatic shifts in how I’m doing things.

I’m here to break it down for you, and to share some behind-the-scenes info on what moves I’m making.

I had a plan. You’ve heard me talk about it. I’m committed to getting things done and seeing things through. And still. Things just weren’t sitting well with me.

Tip: When you’re making a sudden change, resist the urge to jump to the shiny new thing. Give yourself time to look past step one.

I have my course completely created. I know some people say build it as you go, but I am so glad that my course is complete.

I was in the midst of creating my launch funnel and a few things in the strategy that I was following just didn’t sit right with me.

When you get the urge to scrap it all, here’s my advice:

Take a step back.
Get clear on what’s causing the doubts.
Remember it’s okay to do things in a way that aligns with you.
Learn from others but apply it your way.
Recognize if your desire to delay is coming from fear.
Be thoughtful instead of reactionary.

Hear exactly what I did when I felt like “scrapping everything” and the thought process behind it. I hope what has worked for me is helpful to you too.

You are not alone on this journey!

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The Long Game is . . . End of Year Systems EP 83

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Today we are talking about end of year systems. Yep, we’re going to look back so we can make things better moving forward.

Know your numbers.

First, let’s talk about numbers. For many of us, this is something that we gloss over or completely avoid.

Look back and take an honest evaluation. Is there a pattern? When you know your numbers, it’s much easier to adjust so your business serves you and your life.

I use Bench, an online accounting service. It’s made a huge impact. I hired them to go back through the previous year when I first hired them. You can see at a glace the state of all of your accounts and you can get reports.

Let’s talk revenue planning.

This is about more than what we made in a year. It’s about making your revenue goals AND the path to get there. They work in tandem. Hear how I do this in my business, and how you can use the same process.

It’s so much easier to achieve the small goals as you go instead of focusing on an overwhelming annual goal.

Plan your promotional calendar.

Yes, for the year! For many of us this feels overwhelming. Like lots of big projects, the way to do it is to break it up into small sections. Remember, next year you will be able to use this as a gameplan. It’s a cadence that you build with launches and promotions and other events.

Processes make a huge difference. Hear the top 3 things you must include when you layout the calendar for 2022.

Content planning for visibility.

Consistency is everything. Planning will help. Think about how you will draw in your audience. Here are the steps to follow, so you can begin your plan.

Here’s my quick and dirty method.

Invest in making pillar content. If you need help, go back and listen to episode 23, and episode 24 when I talk about this in detail.
Create a process for repurposing your content. Episode 13 breaks this down for you.
Write out the main themes that relate to your business. These become your content pillars.
Write down 20 ideas that you can talk about related to your pillar themes.
Choose a topic for the week.

You have a content plan! Now all you need to do is execute. Allow your people to find you by sharing great info on a regular basis.

Final thoughts: Find the ONE place that works for you. Better to rock one avenue instead of dabbling in a few.

Think systems instead of tasks.

What one new system will you put in place at the end of this year? Let me know!

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The Long Game Is... Bringing Your A-Game As We Age EP 82

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Recently the internet made a big stink about Sarah Jessica Parker lunching with her friend Andy Cohen with *gasp* gray hair. Funny though, no mention of Andy’s silver locks!

Most of my clients are in their 40’s and 50’s. Same with my brand partners. The people I work with are also in this age group. They know their value and they are confident about their work.

Historically women have been criticized for aging, as if we could stop the clock! I’m all about bringing my A game all the time and aging isn’t going to stop me.

Women in their 50’s living their life, wrinkles and all! Imagine.

If feels like we are being told, we are not okay as we are. Nothing new about this. Men become distinguished and women are expected to disappear as they age. Not anymore!

I’ve had my own experience with this issue, and because of that I’ve made intentional choices about the work I do and the women I work with. I am down with supporting every woman’s dream of growing a business and being visible.

From a young age we’ve been programmed to stay young, fresh, baby-like. Advertising around this prevalent when I was growing up.

Aging is a natural part of the human experience. Getting older can feel good and it can be the time where we become our best self. The media may not see it that way, but some people with access to the media are finally speaking out.

Did you know that women entrepreneurs in their 50’s are twice as likely to be successful than those in their 20s? The Forbes article shares data about why and how they came to this conclusion.

We have the power! Hear how you can create connections and use the options for visibility that we all have now.

Tell me who you are! Tell me your story. It’s all about the magic you bring!

Resources:

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What Course Creators Are Telling Me EP 81

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 10:00:00 -0000

I’ve been having conversations with digital course creators and membership site owners. They’ve shared what’s going on for them and what’s next. Digital courses are business streams, not just revenue streams. It can be the foundation of your business.

That’s what today’s episode covers. How to understand what’s working now and the mindset around all of it.

Here’s what I’m hearing:

People want to make sales in their sleep. Nothing new here, except the people who are doing well with digital courses are not sitting back and doing nothing. They are engaged with their audience. There is nothing passive about passive income.
Too many choices overload the consumer. We have all experienced this when we’ve been the consumer. Too many options, choices and price points make us click away. Hear how the jam experiment worked and the significant difference in sales. Don’t overcomplicate things. Create a journey for your client.
Do what feels right for you. Many course creators try emulating the strategies and tactics from courses they’ve taken. There may be some good insights there, but it’s only helpful if it’s 100% you. Be like Bill Murray! You will love hearing how he’s done things his own way for years.

Do you see yourself in any of these examples? We often want to make things more difficult or get stuck when we think there is only one right way.

My advice: slow down. Take a step back and map out your customer journey the way you WANT it to be.

Need help? Book a call and get outside perspective. We can all benefit from that now and then!

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Black Friday Promotion Strategies with Maureen Mwangi EP 80

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0000

You can try hard to ignore it, but I have to tell you, Black Friday is coming. Before the turkey is cooked, big brands and small businesses will be going head to head flooding inboxes with sales and deals no one can refuse (but anyone can delete).

Is your business ready for a Black Friday promotion? Do you have a game plan and strategy in place ready to execute? If you do, you may want to take a moment to listen to the knowledge big brand strategist Maureen Mwangi is sharing in this episode.

Today we’re talking about:

Benefits of being a small business and brand
What businesses are Black Friday sales best for?
How can service-based businesses use Black Friday promotions?
How to strategically setup of a Black Friday promotion
Measuring and evaluating the success of your Black Friday promotion

Having worked with large brands we all know such as Loreal, Dove, Pepsi, and Chobani, Maureen easily sees one of the biggest perks of being a small business is the flexibility and ease with which you can move and test new strategies without obstacles and politics that tie up bigger brands.

“Just because you're small, doesn't mean you're not potent”

Planning and strategizing are key to successfully running a Black Friday promotion for any business, but are Black Friday promos great for every business? Maureen shares great insights on how to determine if this is right for your business.

Keeping your existing customers in mind can help you decipher if offering deep discounts for new business may leave your loyal customers with a less than favorable perception of the high-end value they’ve been using.

TIP #1: Maureen suggests knowing where Black Friday fits into your strategy. Make sure to use it skillfully to either eliminate inventory or boost an introduction to your brand.

Service providers have to be careful to not jeopardize customer retention for new customer acquisition. Exposing your loyal customers to an early access deal or a sneak peak is a great way to consider navigating this terrain.

Whether you are a service-based business or product-based business, knowing how to set up for your Black Friday promotion takes lots of planning, but is so much easier with these reminders that Maureen shared:

Know the timing of your sale; 1-Day versus full weekend
Which products (or services) you will promote and why!
Plan for your prelaunch campaign

TIP #2: Maureen advises that you don't get comfortable. Get really smart at knowing what your customers want and know where they are.

You cannot copy and paste another person's strategy because you don't know what they're trying to fix on the back end.

You have to know your marketing, have a plan, track your metrics, and have everything thought out. Your business and your brand are unique to you. When you have to audit the health of your promotion and evaluate if it was successful, Maureen lays out nice details on how to look at your data and make these important determinations.

The ultimate goal is not having to reinvent the wheel for your Black Friday promotion next year. The goal is to know how you perform this year so you can tweak your strategy and execute better next time.

I want you guys to know this..... Black Friday and Christmas is not your time to test [...] Black Friday and Christmas, you're executing on your best promotions.

Maureen is the queen of turning data into revenue and growth. She’s done it effectively for brands we probably use everyday, and you can book a call with her or follow her on her socials below.

Links to connect with Maureen: